Question

What least number must be subtracted from each of the numbers 14, 17, 34 and 42 so that the remainders are proportional ?

• A. 0
• B. 1
• C. 2
• D. 7

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

2

Answer 2

Let's Assume the subtracted number be $x$

From the question = $\frac{14 - x}{17 - x} = \frac{34 - x}{42 - x}$

= $(14 - x)(42 - x) = (34 - x)(17 - x)$

= $588 - 14x - 42x + x^2 = 578 - 34x - 17x + x^2$

= $588 - 56x = 578 - 51x$

= $- 56x + (-51x) = 578 - 588$

= $- 5x = -10$

$x = \frac{10}{5}$

$x = 2$

The correct option is (C): 2