Mean/Median/Range

[beater]

S is a set containing 9 different numbers. T is a set containing 8 different numbers, all of which are members of S. Which of the following statements CANNOT be true?
a) The mean of S is equal to the mean of T
b) The median of S is equal to the median of T
c) The range of S is equal to the range of T
d) The mean of S is greater than the mean of T
e) The range of S is less than the range of T

OA - E

Cant we just solve this problem by picking a smaller set of numbers as opposed to selecting 9 and 8 different numbers?

I was able to solve this problem using a smaller set of numbers - For eg:
S - 1, 2
T - 1, 1.5, 2

Is there something I'm overlooking in this problem? Please advice. Thanks!

[cramya]

Most defnitely.

If u can pick smaller sets satisfying the condition of different numbers/T being a subset of S and prove each of the choices are possible then the odd man left is the ANSWER.


The last option should be The range of S is less than the range of T

Since possibilties are the ranges can be equal or T's range less than S's


IMO GMAT is all about creative solutions i.e. it does not have to be text book(can be but not necessary)

Go with what strikes you first and foremost as staring at any given prob can only make things worse for everyone .So well done....



--- CR