Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 1 : 3 : 6
Explanation:
Introduction / Context: Expressing all variables in terms of one helps create a clean ratio. Here, A is related to B, and B is related to C. Substituting stepwise leads to a direct representation of A and B in terms of C, which can then be scaled.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach: Substitute B from the second equation into the first to express A in terms of C. Then write A : B : C and clear any fractions using a common multiple to get integer terms.
Step-by-Step Solution:
B = C/2.A = B/3 = (C/2)/3 = C/6.Therefore A : B : C = C/6 : C/2 : C.Cancel C (common factor) to get 1/6 : 1/2 : 1.Multiply all by 6 to clear denominators ⇒ 1 : 3 : 6.Verification / Alternative check: Take C = 6. Then B = 3 and A = 1. Check: A = B/3 = 1, B = C/2 = 3—consistent.
Why Other Options Are Wrong: 2 : 3 : 6 doubles only A incorrectly; 3 : 2 : 6 swaps terms; 3 : 1 : 2 and 1 : 2 : 3 do not satisfy the defining equations.
Common Pitfalls: Forgetting to divide by 3 after substituting for B, or mixing the order of A, B, C when forming the ratio.
Final Answer: 1 : 3 : 6
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