Select the option that is related to the third number on the same basis as the second number is related to the first number.
0.14 : -7.143 :: 0.17 : ?

1. A

   5.124

2. B

   -5.124

3. C

   -5.882

4. D

   5.882

Appeared in: DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

• The relationship between the numbers in each pair follows the pattern y = -1/x.
• For the first pair: -1 / 0.14 ≈ -7.143.
• Applying this pattern to the second number: -1 / 0.17 ≈ -5.88235.
• Rounding to three decimal places gives -5.882, which matches this option.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

• Option A: This option, 5.124, is an incorrect calculation and does not follow the established pattern of finding the negative reciprocal.
• Option B: This option, -5.124, is an incorrect calculation and does not follow the established pattern of finding the negative reciprocal.
• Option D: This option, 5.882, is the positive reciprocal (1/0.17), not the negative reciprocal (-1/0.17) as required by the pattern established in the first pair.

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Clinical Relevance

• Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Number Analogy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
• This question tests logical and mathematical reasoning skills, which are essential for nurses in various clinical calculations, such as medication dosage, IV drip rates, and interpreting lab results.
• Accurate calculation is a critical patient safety measure to prevent medication errors and ensure proper treatment delivery.
• What if the relationship was y = 1/x? In that case, the first pair would have been 0.14 : 7.143 (positive), and the correct answer for the second pair would be 5.882.

How to Approach the Question

• First, analyze the relationship between the first two numbers (0.14 and -7.143).
• Consider common mathematical operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, squares, cubes, reciprocals.
• Notice the change in sign from positive to negative, suggesting multiplication or division by a negative number.
• Test the reciprocal relationship: 1 / 0.14 ≈ 7.1428. This is very close to 7.143. The negative sign matches the pattern.
• Confirm the pattern is y = -1/x.
• Apply this confirmed pattern to the third number (0.17) to find the fourth number: -1 / 0.17 ≈ -5.882.

Concept Tested & Keywords

• Concept Tested: Number Analogy
• Stem keywords: number analogy, reasoning, mathematical relationship
• Lead-in keywords: Select the option

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QEXlRXPJfxOzPaKeTB2rms

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