In an AP, the ratio of the sum of the first p terms to the sum of the first q terms is p^{2}:q^{2}. Which one of the following is correct?

  1. A. The first term is equal to the common difference
  2. B. The first term is equal to twice the common difference
  3. C. The common difference is equal to twice the first term
  4. D. The first term is equal to square of the common difference

Correct Answer: C. The common difference is equal to twice the first term

Explanation

Given \frac{\frac{p}{2}[2a+(p-1)d]}{\frac{q}{2}[2a+(q-1)d]} = \frac{p^2}{q^2}. Cancelling out common terms gives \frac{2a+(p-1)d}{2a+(q-1)d} = \frac{p}{q}. Cross-multiplying yields 2aq + pqd - qd = 2ap + pqd - pd, which simplifies to 2a(q-p) = d(q-p). Assuming p \neq q, we deduce that d = 2a.

Related questions on Algebra

Practice more NDA Mathematics questions