Classification – Odd one out (divisibility by 3) Exactly one of the following four-digit numbers is not divisible by 3. Identify the number that fails the divisibility-by-3 test and mark it as the odd one out.
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A5686
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B1236
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C2346
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D4566
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ENone of these
Answer
Correct Answer: 5686
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Divisibility rules provide the fastest route in many classification questions. For 3, the rule is: a number is divisible by 3 if the sum of its digits is divisible by 3.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Options: 1236, 2346, 4566, 5686
- We will apply the digit-sum test.
Concept / Approach:Compute the digit sum for each option and test divisibility by 3.
Step-by-Step Solution:1236 → 1 + 2 + 3 + 6 = 12 → divisible by 3.2346 → 2 + 3 + 4 + 6 = 15 → divisible by 3.4566 → 4 + 5 + 6 + 6 = 21 → divisible by 3.5686 → 5 + 6 + 8 + 6 = 25 → not divisible by 3.
Verification / Alternative check:Trial division by 3 confirms a remainder for 5686 and no remainder for the others.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- 1236: Divisible by 3.
- 2346: Divisible by 3.
- 4566: Divisible by 3.
- None of these: There is one clear non-multiple (5686).
Common Pitfalls:Confusing “ends with 6” as implying divisibility by 3. The last digit does not determine divisibility by 3; only the digit sum matters.
Final Answer:5686