The value of $(0.\overline{2} + 0.\overline{3} + 0.\overline{32})$ is
Aptitude
Decimal Fraction
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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A$0.\overline{77}$
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B$0.\overline{82}$
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C$0.\overline{86}$
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D$0.\overline{87}$
Answer
Correct Answer: $0.\overline{87}$
Explanation
Concept & Formula
To add recurring decimals, convert each individual recurring decimal into its equivalent vulgar fraction form, find a common denominator to sum them up, and then convert the final fractional sum back into a recurring decimal.
Step-by-Step Solution
Given expression: $0.\overline{2} + 0.\overline{3} + 0.\overline{32}$
1. Convert each term to a fraction:
- $0.\overline{2} = \frac{2}{9}$
- $0.\overline{3} = \frac{3}{9}$
- $0.\overline{32} = \frac{32}{99}$
2. Set a common denominator ($99$) to add the fractions:
- $\frac{2}{9} = \frac{2 \times 11}{9 \times 11} = \frac{22}{99}$
- $\frac{3}{9} = \frac{3 \times 11}{9 \times 11} = \frac{33}{99}$
3. Sum the values together:
$$ \frac{22}{99} + \frac{33}{99} + \frac{32}{99} = \frac{22 + 33 + 32}{99} = \frac{87}{99} $$
4. Convert back to decimal form:
$$ \frac{87}{99} = 0.\overline{87} $$
Exam Strategy & Shortcut
Alternatively, expand the decimals out to a few places and add vertically:
$$ 0.222222... $$
$$ 0.333333... $$
$$ 0.323232... $$
$$ \text{Sum} = 0.878787... = 0.\overline{87} $$
This expansion method lets you spot the repeating pattern $87$ in under 5 seconds without calculating fractions.
Common Pitfall
Do not treat these as normal decimals ($0.2 + 0.3 + 0.32 = 0.82$), which leads directly to the trap option (b). The recurring bar signifies infinite trailing digits that alter the addition outcome.
Final Answer
Therefore, the correct answer is $0.\overline{87}$.