Walkabout
If Q is an odd number and the median of Q consecutive integers is 120, what is the largest of these integers?
(A) (Q - 1)/2 + 120
(B) Q/2 + 119
(C) Q/2 + 120
(D) (Q + 119)/2
(E) (Q + 120)/2
A very fast solution is to see what happens when Q =
1.
This means that there's only
ONE integer in the set.
So, if the median of the set is 120, then the set is {120}, which means the greatest value in the set is
120 So the correct answer choice should yield
120 when Q =
1.
a) (
1-1)/2 + 120 =
120 PERFECT!
b)
1/2 + 119 = some non-integer
c)
1/2 + 120 = some non-integer
d) (
1+119)/2 = 60
e) (
1+120)/2 = some non-integer
Since only answer choice A yield the correct output, it is the correct answer.
Cheers,
Brent
This is very helpful! How do we know not to test another number (e.g., when Q=3)? Overall, I am confused on the rules pertaining to how to know if you need to test more smart numbers, or do you only need to choose one set of smart numbers if they satisfy all the conditions? Thank you in advance