Classification – Odd one out (fixed difference within ordered pairs) Each option is an ordered pair of integers (x, y). In three pairs, the difference y − x equals 11; in exactly one pair, the difference is not 11. Identify the pair that breaks the pattern.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 64, 73

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Classification questions with ordered pairs often hide a consistent arithmetic relation. Here, the governing relation is a fixed difference between the two numbers in each pair. Detecting and verifying that relation reveals the single exception.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Pairs: (46, 57), (38, 49), (41, 52), (64, 73)
  • We test the difference y − x for each pair.


Concept / Approach:
Compute y − x for every pair and look for consistency. If most pairs share the same difference and one does not, that pair is the odd element.



Step-by-Step Solution:
(46, 57): 57 − 46 = 11 → fits pattern.(38, 49): 49 − 38 = 11 → fits pattern.(41, 52): 52 − 41 = 11 → fits pattern.(64, 73): 73 − 64 = 9 → breaks pattern.



Verification / Alternative check:
Since three independent differences equal 11, the relation is unambiguous; any other arithmetic property would be secondary and unnecessary.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 46, 57: Matches difference 11.
  • 38, 49: Matches difference 11.
  • 41, 52: Matches difference 11.
  • None of these: One clear exception exists (64, 73).


Common Pitfalls:
Overfitting patterns such as sums or products when a simpler, fixed-difference rule already yields a unique odd one out.



Final Answer:
64, 73

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