If the average (arithmetic mean) of \(5\) positive temperatures is \(x\) degrees Fahrenheit, then the sum of the \(3\)

[M7MBA]

If the average (arithmetic mean) of \(5\) positive temperatures is \(x\) degrees Fahrenheit, then the sum of the \(3\) greatest of these temperatures, in degrees Fahrenheit, could be:

A. \(6x\)
B. \(4x\)
C. \(\dfrac{5x}3\)
D. \(\dfrac{3x}2\)
E. \(\dfrac{3x}5\)

Answer: B

Source: GMAT Paper Tests

[Scott@TargetTestPrep]

If the average (arithmetic mean) of \(5\) positive temperatures is \(x\) degrees Fahrenheit, then the sum of the \(3\) greatest of these temperatures, in degrees Fahrenheit, could be:

A. \(6x\)
B. \(4x\)
C. \(\dfrac{5x}3\)
D. \(\dfrac{3x}2\)
E. \(\dfrac{3x}5\)

Answer: B

Source: GMAT Paper Tests

Solution:

Since x is the average of 5 positive temperatures, the sum of the 3 greatest temperatures must be greater than 3x but less than 5x. Since 4x is the only one in the given choices that is between 3x and 4x, 4x could be the sum of the 3 greatest temperatures.

Answer: B