CAT Quantitative Aptitude Questions | CAT Algebra - Progressions questions

CAT Questions | Algebra | Progressions - Arithmetic Progression

The question is about Arithmetic Progression. Four terms in an AP is given and we need to find out the relationship between the terms formed by multiplying three terms at a time. With some simple but very powerful ideas, one can cut down on a lot of working when it comes to progressions. For example, anchoring a progression around its middle term can be very useful. CAT Exam tests the idea of progression often in the CAT Quantitative Aptitude section and this could also be tested in DI LR section of the CAT Exam as a part of a puzzle.

Question 10: a, b, c and d are in A.P., What can we say about terms bcd, acd, abd and abc?

  1. They are also in A.P.
  2. They are also in H.P.
  3. They are also in G.P.
  4. They are not in an A.P., G.P. or H.P.

Best CAT Online Coaching
Try upto 40 hours for free
Learn from the best!


2IIM : Best Online CAT Coaching.


Video Explanation


Arithmetic Progression

Best CAT Coaching in Chennai


CAT Coaching in Chennai - CAT 2022
Limited Seats Available - Register Now!


Explanatory Answer

Method of solving this CAT Question from CAT Algebra - Progressions: One simple division will lead to the solution.

a, b, c and d are in A.P.
Dividing through out this A.P. by abcd, we get
\\frac{a}{abcd}\\) , \\frac{b}{abcd}\\) , \\frac{c}{abcd}\\) , \\frac{d}{abcd}\\) are in A.P.
\\frac{1}{bcd}\\) , \\frac{1}{acd}\\) , \\frac{1}{abd}\\) , \\frac{1}{abc}\\) are in A.P.
=> bcd, acd, abd and abc are in H.P.

The question is "a, b, c and d are in A.P., What can we say about terms bcd, acd, abd and abc?"

Hence the answer is "They are in H.P."

Choice B is the correct answer.



CAT Online Preparation | CAT Algebra Videos On YouTube


Other useful sources for Algebra Questions | Arithmetic Progressions Geometric Progressions Sample Questions


CAT Questions | CAT Quantitative Aptitude

CAT Questions | CAT DILR

CAT Questions | Verbal Ability for CAT


Where is 2IIM located?

2IIM Online CAT Coaching
A Fermat Education Initiative,
58/16, Indira Gandhi Street,
Kaveri Rangan Nagar, Saligramam, Chennai 600 093

How to reach 2IIM?

Phone: (91) 44 4505 8484
Mobile: (91) 99626 48484
WhatsApp: WhatsApp Now
Email: prep@2iim.com