The sum of a number, its half, its 1/3 and 27, is 71. Find the number.
- AOption (a)
25
- BOption (b)
24
- COption (c)
23
- DOption (d)
22
View answer & explanationHide answer & explanation
Correct answer
24
Why this answer is correct
Shortcut Trick
Assume the number is the LCM of the denominators (2 and 3) = 6 units.
According to the question: 6 units (number) + 3 units (half) + 2 units (one-third) + 27 = 71.
Summing the units: 11 units + 27 = 71.
⇒ 11 units = 71 − 27 = 44.
⇒ 1 unit = 4.
⇒ The number (6 units) = 6 × 4 = 24.
∴ The correct answer is 24.
Alternate Method
Given:
Let the number be x.
Sum of x, x/2, x/3, and 27 is 71.
Formula Used:
Linear equation in one variable: x + (1/2)x + (1/3)x + C = Total
Calculations:
⇒ x + x/2 + x/3 + 27 = 71
⇒ x + x/2 + x/3 = 71 − 27
⇒ x + x/2 + x/3 = 44
⇒ (6x + 3x + 2x) ÷ 6 = 44
⇒ 11x ÷ 6 = 44
⇒ 11x = 44 × 6
⇒ x = (44 × 6) ÷ 11
⇒ x = 4 × 6 = 24
∴ The correct answer is 24.
Additional Information
Linear Equations
An equation involving only linear polynomials with one variable is called a linear equation in one variable, typically in the form ax + b = 0.
Least Common Multiple (LCM) Method
To eliminate fractions in an equation, multiply the entire equation by the LCM of all denominators involved.
Transposition Rule
When a term is moved from one side of the equals sign to the other, its sign changes (+ becomes −, and × becomes ÷).