Official Guide Explanation:
Data Sufficiency #47

 

 

Background

This is just one of hundreds of free explanations I've created to the quantitative questions in The Official Guide for GMAT Quantitative Review (2nd ed.). Click the links on the question number, difficulty level, and categories to find explanations for other problems.

These are the same explanations that are featured in my "Guides to the Official Guide" PDF booklets. However, because of the limitations of HTML and cross-browser compatibility, some mathematical concepts, such as fractions and roots, do not display as clearly online.

Click here for an example of the PDF booklets. Click here to purchase a PDF copy.

 

Solution and Metadata

Question: 47
Page: 156
Difficulty: 5 (Moderate)
Category 1: Word Problems > Work Problems > 2 inputs
Category 2: Word Problems > Rate Problems > Combined Rate

Explanation: To find the amount of time required for the two hoses to fill the pool, you need the rates of each hose. Statement (1) is insufficient: it provides the rate of X, but nothing about Y. Statement (2) is also insufficient: it gives the rate of Y, but nothing about X.

Taken together, the statements are sufficient. With the amount of time it takes each hose to fill the pool independently, you can find the time it takes them to do so working together, given by the equation T = ((AB)/(A + B)) . Choice (C) is correct.

Click here for the full list of GMAT Quant Review explanations.

 

You should follow me on Twitter. While you're at it, take a moment to subscribe to GMAT Hacks via RSS or Email.

Total GMAT Math

The comprehensive guide to the GMAT Quant section. It's "far and away the best study material available," including over 300 realistic practice questions and more than 500 exercises!
Click to read more.