If 2/z = 2/(z + 1) + 2/(z + 25) which of these integers could be the value of z? Choose the correct choice from the following options
A) 0
B) 1
C) 2
D) 3
E) 5

Rationale: solving for z algebraically in this problem would not be easy . instead , we can follow the hint in the question ( “ which of these integers … ” ) and test each answer choice : a . 2 / 0 = 2 / 1 + 2 / 25 incorrect ( division by zero ) b . 2 / 1 = 2 / 2 + 2 / 26 incorrect c . 2 / 2 = 2 / 3 + 2 / 27 incorrect d . 2 / 3 = 2 / 4 + 2 / 28 incorrect e . 2 / 4 = 2 / 5 + 2 / 30 correct the correct answer is e , because it contains the only value that makes the equation work . notice how quickly this strategy worked in this case
Answer: E