7386038 is divisible by
Aptitude
Number System
Difficulty: Medium
Choose an option
-
A3
-
B4
-
C9
-
D11
Answer
Correct Answer: 11
Explanation
### Concept & Strategy
To find the correct divisor for a large number, apply basic divisibility rules one by one based on the given options, starting with the simplest rules (like 4) and moving to sums (like 3 and 9) or alternating sums (like 11).
### Step-by-Step Solution
Let us test the number 7386038 against each option:
* **Option (b) Check for 4:**
A number is divisible by 4 if its last two digits are divisible by 4.
The last two digits are 38. $38 / 4 = 9.5$. Not divisible by 4.
* **Option (a) Check for 3 & Option (c) Check for 9:**
A number is divisible by 3 or 9 if the sum of its digits is a multiple of 3 or 9.
Sum: $7 + 3 + 8 + 6 + 0 + 3 + 8 = 35$.
35 is neither a multiple of 3 nor 9.
* **Option (d) Check for 11:**
Difference between sum of digits in odd and even positions.
Odd places sum (right to left): $8 + 0 + 8 + 7 = 23$.
Even places sum (right to left): $3 + 6 + 3 = 12$.
Difference: $23 - 12 = 11$.
Since the difference is 11, the number is divisible by 11.
### Exam Strategy & Shortcut
Always check the rule for 4 first because it only requires looking at the last two digits, taking less than two seconds. If you check 3 and it fails (sum is 35), you can instantly eliminate 9 as well, because any number divisible by 9 MUST be divisible by 3. This dual-elimination saves significant time.
### Common Pitfall
Test-takers often recalculate the digit sum for 9 after already finding it for 3. Remember the hierarchical nature of multiples: if it fails the 3 test, do not waste time testing the 9 test.
### Final Answer
Therefore, the correct answer is **11**.