Prelims 2026 · CSAT / Quantitative Aptitude · Question 29
Three variables x, y and z take values 2, 3, 4 or 5 such that their values are always distinct. If M and N denote the largest possible value and the smallest possible value, respectively, for the expression {(x × y) + z}; then M - N is<br/>
Answer
13
We need extremes of xy + z where x, y, z are distinct and chosen from {2,3,4,5}. Maximum: 5×4 + 3 = 23. Minimum: check best placement of the smallest numbers; 2×3 + 4 = 10 is the least. Therefore M − N = 23 − 10 = 13.