1994 AJHSME Problems/Problem 20
Contents
[hide]Problem
Let and be four different digits selected from the set
If the sum is to be as small as possible, then must equal
Solution
Small fractions have small numerators and large denominators. To maximize the denominator, let and .
To minimize the numerator, let and .
Solution 2
To make the smallest fraction, you need the lowest numerator and the highest denominator. So, take the first and last digits of the set, which are and . Balance the equations to be "even". Since is smaller than , put it over . You get , or .
-goldenn
See Also
1994 AJHSME (Problems • Answer Key • Resources) | ||
Preceded by Problem 19 |
Followed by Problem 21 | |
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