Barbara accidentally spilled ink onto her results slip. Her results were as follows:
- What could be the smallest possible difference between her English and Math results?
- What could be the largest possible difference between her English and Math results?
(a)
Total scores
= 4 x 70
= 280
Sum of English and Math scores
= 280 - 63 - 58
= 159
To have the smallest possible difference, the English score must be as high as possible.
Math score if the English score is 69
= 159 - 69
= 90
Smallest possible difference
= 90 - 69
= 21
(b)
To have the largest possible difference, the English score must be as low as possible.
Math score if the English score is 60
= 159 - 60
= 99
Smallest possible difference
= 99 - 60
= 39
Answer(s): (a) 21; (b) 39