Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: 16 : 35
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Chained ratios must be combined by matching the repeated term. Here, B connects A to C, and C connects to D. The task builds ratio-composition skills and careful scaling to get an exact A : D relationship.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
To combine A : B and B : C, equalize the value of B in both ratios. Then include C : D similarly by equalizing C. Scale to integers to avoid fractions and then read off A : D.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Confirm intermediate ratios: A : B = 16 : 24 = 2 : 3; B : C = 24 : 30 = 4 : 5; C : D = 30 : 35 = 6 : 7.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
2 : 7 and 4 : 13 do not preserve the combined scaling; 7 : 8 reverses order; only 16 : 35 satisfies all three conditions.
Common Pitfalls:
Adding or multiplying ratios directly without aligning the repeated variable; forgetting to scale consistently when introducing the third ratio.
Final Answer:
16 : 35
Discussion & Comments