Two integers have H.C.F. (greatest common divisor) equal to 12, and the difference between the two numbers is also 12. Which pair of numbers satisfies both conditions?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 84, 96

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
We are given two constraints for a pair of integers: their highest common factor (HCF) is 12, and their difference is 12. We must select the pair that meets both conditions at once.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • HCF = 12.
  • Absolute difference between the numbers = 12.
  • All choices are positive integer pairs.


Concept / Approach:
If HCF is 12, then each number is a multiple of 12. Let the numbers be 12m and 12n, with gcd(m, n) = 1 (since all common factors are captured by 12). The difference is |12m − 12n| = 12|m − n| and is given as 12 ⇒ |m − n| = 1, so m and n must be consecutive coprime integers.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Check each option quickly for both properties.66, 78 ⇒ difference 12 but gcd(66, 78) = 6, not 12.70, 82 ⇒ difference 12 but gcd = 2, not 12.94, 106 ⇒ difference 12 but gcd = 2, not 12.84, 96 ⇒ difference 12 and gcd(84, 96) = 12 (since 84 = 12*7, 96 = 12*8 and gcd(7,8)=1).


Verification / Alternative check:
Factor 84 = 2^2*3*7 and 96 = 2^5*3; common prime factors have minimum exponents 2^2*3 = 12. Difference is 12. Both constraints satisfied.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 66, 78; 70, 82; 94, 106: Correct difference but HCF is not 12.
  • 72, 84 (added distractor): HCF is 12, but difference is also 12; however gcd(72,84)=12 is true; if present as an option it would also satisfy. Among the provided original options, 84, 96 is the correct listed pair.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Forgetting that both numbers must be multiples of 12.
  • Not checking gcd precisely, especially when both are even.


Final Answer:
84, 96

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