Anaira Mitch wrote:If -1 < x < 0, which of the following must be true?
I. x^3 < x^2
II. x^5 < 1 - x
III. x^4 < x^2
a)I only
b)I and II only
c) II and III only
d) I and III only
e) I, II and III
-1 < 0 < 1 indicates that x is a NEGATIVE FRACTION.
Since x is a negative value, x^(even power) = POSITIVE.
As a result, the inequalities above can be safely divided by ANY EVEN POWER OF X.
I:
x³ < x²
x³/x² < x²/x²
x < 1.
Since x is a negative fraction, it must be true that x < 1.
Eliminate C, since it does not include Statement I.
II:
x� < 1-x
x�/x� < (1-x)/x�
x < (1-x)/x�
negative < (positive - negative)/(positive)
negative < positive/positive
negative < positive.
Since a negative value must be less than a positive value, Statement II must be true.
Eliminate A and D, since they do not include Statement II.
III:
x� < x²
x�/x² < x²/x²
x² < 1.
Since x is a negative fraction, it must be true that x² < 1.
Eliminate B, since it does not include Statement III.
The correct answer is
E.
Private tutor exclusively for the GMAT and GRE, with over 20 years of experience.
Followed here and elsewhere by over 1900 test-takers.
I have worked with students based in the US, Australia, Taiwan, China, Tajikistan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia -- a long list of countries.
My students have been admitted to HBS, CBS, Tuck, Yale, Stern, Fuqua -- a long list of top programs.
As a tutor, I don't simply teach you how I would approach problems.
I unlock the best way for YOU to solve problems.
For more information, please email me (Mitch Hunt) at
[email protected].
Student Review #1
Student Review #2
Student Review #3