HI All,
This DS question is based on the idea of spotting a common 'multiple' among variables (and it's a concept that you'll likely see at least once on Test Day).
If you don't spot the multiple though, you can still get to the correct answer. While the work will take a little more effort, you can TEST VALUES and prove that a pattern exists.
We're told that X + 2Y = Z. We're asked for the value of X.
Fact 1: 3Y = 4.5 + 1.5Z
IF.....
Z = 0
3Y = 4.5
Y = 1.5
X + 2(1.5) = 0
X + 3 = 0
X = -3
The answer to the question is -3
IF...
Z = 2
3Y = 7.5
Y = 2.5
X + 2(2.5) = 2
X + 5 = 2
X = -3
The answer to the question is -3
IF....
Z = -3
3Y = 0
Y = 0
X + 2(0) = -3
X = -3
The answer to the question is -3
This is clearly a pattern. X is ALWAYS equal to -3
Fact 1 is SUFFICIENT
Fact 2: Y = 2
With this information, the original equation becomes....
X + 2(3) = Z
X + 6 = Z
Without the value of Z, we cannot figure out the value of X.
Fact 2 is INSUFFICIENT
Final Answer:
GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich