How far is point P from point Q? (All points lie on a straight line.) I. Point T is exactly midway between P and Q. Point T is 5 km west of point R. II. Point Q is 2 km east of point R.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Both statements together are sufficient, but NEITHER alone is sufficient.

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
We must compute the exact distance between two collinear points, P and Q, using reference points T and R. Sufficiency hinges on whether a unique numeric distance results.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • I: T is the midpoint of segment PQ and T is 5 km west of R.
  • II: Q is 2 km east of R.
  • Positive eastward direction; west is negative relative to R for a simple coordinate model.


Concept / Approach:
Place R at coordinate 0. Use directional data to place T and Q, then apply the midpoint relation to solve for P and hence the distance PQ.



Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Coordinate setup: Let R = 0. From II, Q = +2. From I, T = −5 and T is midpoint of P and Q ⇒ (P + Q)/2 = −5.2) Solve for P: (P + 2)/2 = −5 ⇒ P + 2 = −10 ⇒ P = −12.3) Distance PQ = |Q − P| = |2 − (−12)| = 14 km.4) Sufficiency: I alone lacks Q's absolute placement; II alone lacks the midpoint anchor. Together they yield a unique numerical distance.


Verification / Alternative check:
Reverse-check midpoint: (−12 + 2)/2 = −10/2 = −5, consistent with T's position.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • A/B/C: Neither statement alone fixes unique coordinates; hence not sufficient individually.
  • D: Together they are sufficient.


Common Pitfalls:
Sign errors with east/west; forgetting midpoint formula requires absolute positions, not just relative gaps.



Final Answer:
Both statements together are sufficient, but NEITHER alone is sufficient.

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