Question

If the ratio of the number of personal computers sold by IBM, Compaq, and Tandy (not shown) in 1993 was 6 to 4 to 1, respectively, approximately how many personal computers were sold by Tandy in 1993? 

 

• A. 350,000
• B. 400,000
• C. 450,000
• D. 500,000
• E. 550,000

Hint:

When solving ratio problems with real-world data, check if your value for "1 part" is consistent with all the given information. Here, using both IBM and Compaq data to find the value of 1 part confirms our reading of the graph and our calculation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This is a ratio problem that requires us to use data from the graph. We are given a ratio connecting the sales of three companies, two of which have sales data on the graph. We can use this known data to find the value of one "part" of the ratio, and then use that to find the sales for the unknown company (Tandy).
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Set up a proportion based on the given ratio and the known sales figures.
Ratio: IBM : Compaq : Tandy = 6 : 4 : 1.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
From the graph, we find the sales data for 1993 (the darker bars):
- IBM sales = 2.1 million = 2,100,000.
- Compaq sales = 1.4 million = 1,400,000.
We can use either IBM's or Compaq's data. Let's use IBM.
According to the ratio, IBM's sales correspond to 6 parts.
\[ 6 \text{ parts} = 2,100,000 \] To find the value of 1 part, we divide by 6:
\[ 1 \text{ part} = \frac{2,100,000}{6} = 350,000 \] Tandy's sales correspond to 1 part of the ratio. Therefore, Tandy sold 350,000 computers.
To verify, let's use Compaq's data. According to the ratio, Compaq's sales correspond to 4 parts.
\[ 4 \text{ parts} = 1,400,000 \] \[ 1 \text{ part} = \frac{1,400,000}{4} = 350,000 \] Both calculations yield the same result.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Approximately 350,000 personal computers were sold by Tandy in 1993.