Combine two ratios that share a middle term: If A : B = 5 : 7 and B : C = 6 : 11, determine the three-term ratio A : B : C by correctly aligning the common term B.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 30 : 42 : 77

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
When two ratios share a variable, align the shared term to the same value to combine them into a single three-term ratio. This technique underlies many proportion problems in quantitative aptitude.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • A : B = 5 : 7.
  • B : C = 6 : 11.


Concept / Approach:
Let A : B = 5x : 7x and B : C = 6y : 11y. Set 7x = 6y to make B consistent, then compute A and C accordingly and write A : B : C in integer form.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Choose 7x = 6y ⇒ take x = 6 and y = 7 for integer scaling.Then A = 5x = 30; B = 7x = 42; C = 11y = 77.Thus A : B : C = 30 : 42 : 77 (already simplest).


Verification / Alternative check:
Check subratios: A : B = 30 : 42 = 5 : 7; B : C = 42 : 77 = 6 : 11.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
55 : 77 : 66 does not preserve B : C = 6 : 11; 35 : 49 : 42 mismatches both links; “None of these” is invalid since a correct option exists.



Common Pitfalls:
Adding numerators/denominators directly, or attempting to average ratios. Only matching the shared term yields a correct combination.



Final Answer:
30 : 42 : 77

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