Two numbers are in the ratio 3 : 5. If 4 is subtracted from each of these two numbers, the new numbers then are in the ratio 4 : 7. Find the smaller of the two original numbers.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
Here,
A : B
3 : 5
Then 4 is subtracted from each of these two numbers, the new numbers then are in the ratio
A : B
4 : 7
⇒ To compare both ratio we multiply initial ratio with 3 and final with 2
⇒ (3 : 5) x 3 = 9 : 15 (4 : 7) x 2 = 8 : 14
⇒ (15 - 14) units = 4
⇒ 1 unit = 4
⇒ The smaller of the two original numbers = 9 x 4 = 36.