What is the average of all even numbers between 11 and 63 (inclusive of the endpoints if even)?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 37

Explanation:


Introduction:
The average of an arithmetic sequence equals the average of its first and last terms. For even numbers in a range, identify the first even and last even within the interval and take their mean.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Even numbers from 12 to 62 are within 11 to 63.
  • Sequence: 12, 14, 16, ..., 62.


Concept / Approach:
For any arithmetic progression with constant difference, mean = (first + last) / 2, independent of the number of terms. This avoids summing the entire list.


Step-by-Step Solution:

First even ≥ 11 is 12; last even ≤ 63 is 62. Average = (12 + 62) / 2 = 74 / 2 = 37.


Verification / Alternative check:
The sequence is symmetric around 37: pairs (12,62), (14,60), … all average to 37, confirming the mean.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
37.5 or 42 would be the mean if endpoints were different; 47 and 36 do not match the symmetric pairing check.


Common Pitfalls:
Including 11 or 63 erroneously (both are odd) or trying to count the total terms unnecessarily.


Final Answer:
37

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