7544 : 5322 :: 4673 : ? — Infer the consistent four-digit transformation applied to the first number and compute the image of the second.
Verbal Reasoning
Analogy
Difficulty: Medium
Choose an option
Answer
Correct Answer: 2451
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Digit-wise analogies sometimes apply uniform arithmetic across positions. Here, 7544 maps to 5322. Notice each digit reduces by 2 (7→5, 5→3, 4→2, 4→2), which is equivalent to subtracting 2222 as a whole.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- 7→5, 5→3, 4→2, 4→2 indicates '−2' per digit.
- No borrows occur in 7544 − 2222, so the pattern is clean.
- Apply the same '−2' per digit to 4673.
Concept / Approach:The simplest consistent rule is subtract 2 from each digit, i.e., number − 2222.
Step-by-Step Solution:1) Verify: 7544 − 2222 = 5322 (matches).2) Compute: 4673 − 2222 = 2451.
Verification / Alternative check:Digit-wise check: 4→2, 6→4, 7→5, 3→1; result 2451.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- 2367/2531/4472/2251: Do not result from subtracting 2222 from 4673; they break the consistent per-digit reduction.
Common Pitfalls:Applying subtraction to the whole number with borrow errors rather than treating it digit-wise as the example implies.
Final Answer:2451