Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 285
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This coding-decoding question uses a rearrangement pattern of three numbers. The symbol x is only a separator, not multiplication. You must identify the order in which the three input numbers are placed to form the three-digit output.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Compare the input order with the output digits. In 7,5,6 → 576, the output starts with the middle number 5, then the first number 7, then the last number 6. Verify this with 4,2,5 → 245 before applying it to 8,2,5.
Step-by-Step Solution:
From 7 x 5 x 6 = 576:
Output order is: second, first, third → 5,7,6
Check with 4 x 2 x 5 = 245:
Second, first, third → 2,4,5 which matches 245
So the rule is confirmed: write numbers in the order (2nd, 1st, 3rd).
Now apply to 8 x 2 x 5:
Second = 2, First = 8, Third = 5
So output is 285.
Verification / Alternative check:
Once the order is confirmed by both examples, no arithmetic is needed. Simply placing the digits as (2nd, 1st, 3rd) for 8,2,5 gives 285 reliably.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
258: keeps original order, not the coded order.
582: starts with third number, not second.
852: begins with first number, which contradicts examples.
528: mixes second and third incorrectly.
Common Pitfalls:
Treating x as multiplication, guessing a random rearrangement without verifying with both examples, or mixing the positions (like 1st-3rd-2nd) are frequent mistakes.
Final Answer:
285
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