Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: can't be determined
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Sometimes average problems do not supply enough information to isolate unknowns for a subgroup. Recognizing insufficiency is as important as computing a value when possible.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
To compute the average savings of B and C, we need their incomes (known only in total with A) and their expenditures (unknown). Without at least the combined expenditure of B and C, infinitely many distributions satisfy the constraints, leading to different savings outcomes.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Different choices of B and C expenditures produce different savings while respecting the given information. Hence no unique value exists.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Assuming B and C have the same expenditure as A or that the group average for expenditure is known; neither is given.
Final Answer:
can't be determined
Discussion & Comments