If p+q=15, then what is q-p equal to?

For the following two (02) items: Let p = \sum_{j=1}^{n} \log_{10} 2^j and q = \sum_{j=1}^{n} \log_{10} 5^j.

  1. A. \log_{10} 2.5
  2. B. 5 \log_{10} 2.5
  3. C. 10 \log_{10} 2.5
  4. D. 15 \log_{10} 2.5

Correct Answer: D. 15 \log_{10} 2.5

Explanation

From \frac{n(n+1)}{2} = 15, we get n(n+1) = 30, so n=5. Now q-p = \sum_{j=1}^n (\log_{10} 5^j - \log_{10} 2^j) = \sum_{j=1}^n \log_{10}(2.5^j) = \log_{10}(2.5) \sum_{j=1}^n j. Thus q-p = 15 \log_{10} 2.5.

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