Quantitative Aptitude – Algebra – Maxima Minima – If a, b, c, and d are integers

Quantitative Aptitude – Algebra – Maxima Minima

Question

If a, b, c, and d are integers such that a + b + c + d = 30, then the minimum possible value of (a – b)^2 + (a – c)^2 + (a – d)^2 is

Answer

2

Solution

From CAT 2017 – Quantitative Aptitude – Algebra – Maxima Minima, we can see that,
a + b + c + d = 30
a, b, c, d are integers. (a – b)^2 + (a – c)^2 + (a – d)^2 would have its minimum value when each bracket has the least possible value. Let (a, b, c, d) = (8, 8, 7, 7) The given expression would be 2. It cannot have a smaller value.
Answer: 2

Download CAT 2017 Question Paper with answers and detailed solutions in PDF

CAT 2017 Questions from Quantitative Aptitude – Algebra

Quantitative Aptitude – Algebra – Maxima Minima – Q1: If three sides of a rectangular park have a total length 400 ft, then the area of the park is maximum when the length (in ft) of its longer side is
Quantitative Aptitude – Algebra – Maxima Minima – Q2: An elevator has a weight limit of 630 kg. It is carrying a group of people of whom the heaviest weighs 57 kg and the lightest weighs 53 kg. What is the maximum possible number of people in the group?
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