Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 18-22
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Intervals can be compared by their span (b − a). Test-makers often keep three spans equal and alter one to create a unique outlier. Identifying the inconsistent span is a quick arithmetic check.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Compute b − a for each interval. If three intervals have span 2 and one has a different span, that different one is the odd element. (We compare spans only; whether endpoints are prime is irrelevant here.)
Step-by-Step Solution:
11–13 → span = 13 − 11 = 2 → fits pattern.12–14 → span = 14 − 12 = 2 → fits pattern.17–19 → span = 19 − 17 = 2 → fits pattern.18–22 → span = 22 − 18 = 4 → breaks pattern.
Verification / Alternative check:
Even if you looked for prime twins, both 11–13 and 17–19 are twin-prime intervals; however, 12–14 includes composites. The span test alone consistently isolates one unique outlier (18–22), which is the intended basis.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Mixing multiple criteria (e.g., primes and parity) and missing the simplest invariant—span equality.
Final Answer:
18-22
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