If $B > A$, then which expression will have the highest value (given that $A$ and $B$ are positive integers)?
Aptitude
Number System
Difficulty: Medium
Choose an option
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A$A - B$
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B$AB$
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C$A + B$
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DCan't say
Answer
Correct Answer: AB
Explanation
### Concept & Strategy
Comparing the magnitude of basic arithmetic expressions depends on the size of the integers $A$ and $B$. When integers are $1$ or greater, multiplication typically grows much faster than addition.
### Step-by-Step Solution
* **Given:** $B > A$ and $A, B \in \mathbb{Z}^+$.
* **Testing Values:**
* Case 1: $A = 1, B = 2$
* $A - B = -1$
* $AB = 2$
* $A + B = 3$ (Here $A+B$ is greater)
* Case 2: $A = 2, B = 3$
* $A - B = -1$
* $AB = 6$
* $A + B = 5$ (Here $AB$ is greater)
* **Deduction:** The result is dependent on the specific values chosen. If $A=1$, the sum is larger. If $A \geq 2$, the product is larger.
### Exam Strategy & Shortcut
Since there is no single expression that remains the largest for all possible positive integers $A$ and $B$, the answer must be "Can't say." Always test the edge case where $A=1$ for these types of "which is greatest" problems.
### Common Pitfall
Assuming multiplication is always greater than addition. This is a common heuristic error; it only holds true for integers greater than $2$.
### Final Answer
Therefore, the correct answer is **Can't say**.