Question

Two numbers are in the ratio 4:9, If the mean proportional between them is 24, Find. the positive difference between the two numbers.

• A. 30
• B. 25
• C. 15
• D. 20

Answer 1

Answer:

D. 20

Two numbers are in the ratio 4 : 9.
Let the numbers be 4k and 9k.

The mean proportional (geometric mean) between them is given as 24.

$\sqrt{(4k)(9k)} = 24$

$\sqrt{36k^2} = 24$

$6k = 24 \Rightarrow k = 4$

So, the two numbers are:

• (4k = 16)

• (9k = 36)

Positive difference between the two numbers:

$36 - 16 = \boxed{20}$

Answer: 20