The dimensions of a certain machine are 36 x 48 x 30. If the size of the machine is increased proportionately until the sum of its dimensions equals 171, what will be the increase in the shortest side ? A) 24 B) 15 C) 18 D) 21

• all the dimensions of machine is increased x times.
  
  Given that, when dimensions are increased proportionately, the sum of its dimensions become 171unit
  36x+48x+30x = 171
  114x = 171
  x = 1.5
  The increase in the shortest side=30x-30=30*1.5-30=15
  
  Therefore, the increase in the shortest side would be 15 units.
• 5 years agoHelpfull: Yes(2) No(0)
• 36 : 48 : 30 will be 6 : 8 : 5
  total 36+48+30 will be 114
  remaining 171-114 = 57
  
  as we know the shortest side is 5
  5/17 x 57 = 15 (shortest side divided by the total of sides and multiplies with remaining)
• 4 years agoHelpfull: Yes(1) No(0)