Squares – Compare areas when one square has double the diagonal of the other:\nTwo squares are given. The diagonal of the first is exactly twice the diagonal of the second. What is the ratio of their areas (larger : smaller)?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 4:1

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The area of a square is proportional to the square of its side. Its diagonal is side * √2, so area is also proportional to the square of the diagonal.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Square A has diagonal 2d; Square B has diagonal d.
  • We need area(A) : area(B).


Concept / Approach:
If diagonal doubles, area scales by (2)^2 = 4, because Area ∝ diagonal^2.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Let diagonal of small square = d; area ∝ d^2.Larger diagonal = 2d ⇒ area ∝ (2d)^2 = 4d^2.Ratio = 4d^2 : d^2 = 4 : 1.


Verification / Alternative check:
Take a concrete example: if d = √2, side = 1, area = 1. If 2d = 2√2, side = 2, area = 4 ⇒ ratio 4:1.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
2:1, 3:1 imply linear scaling; area scales quadratically with diagonal.


Common Pitfalls:
Mistaking diagonal or side as linearly linked to area; forgetting square-law scaling.


Final Answer:
4:1

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