Write a digit in the blank space of each of the following numbers so that the number formed is divisible by 11:
(a) 92 ___ 389 (b) 8 ___9484
(a) 92_389
Let a be placed in the blank.
Sum of the digits at odd places = 9 + 3 + 2 = 14
Sum of the digits at even places = 8 + a + 9 = 17 + a
Difference = 17 + a − 14 = 3 + a
For a number to be divisible by 11, this difference should be zero or a multiple of 11.
If 3 + a = 0, then
a = − 3
However, it cannot be negative.
A closest multiple of 11, which is near to 3, has to be taken. It is 11itself.
3 + a = 11
a = 8
Therefore, the required digit is 8.
(b) 8_9484
Let a be placed in the blank.
Sum of the digits at odd places = 4 + 4 + a = 8 + a
Sum of the digits at even places = 8 + 9 + 8 = 25
Difference = 25 − (8 + a)
= 17 − a
For a number to be divisible by 11, this difference should be zero or a multiple of 11.
If 17 − a = 0, then
a = 17
This is not possible.
A multiple of 11 has to be taken. Taking 11, we obtain
17 − a = 11
a = 6
Therefore, the required digit is 6.