Correct Option (B)
To determine the smallest number among 240, 321, 418, and 812, we standardize their bases for comparison.
- First, convert 418 and 812 to base 2:
- 418 = (22)18 = 236
- 812 = (23)12 = 236
- Next, compare 240 with 236. Since 240 > 236, 240 is not the smallest.
- The comparison now narrows down to 321 and 236. To compare these, we can find a common exponent or compare simplified powers:
- Consider 37 and 212.
- Calculate their values: 37 = 2187 and 212 = 4096.
- Since 37 < 212, raising both sides to the power of 3 preserves the inequality: (37)3 < (212)3.
- This simplifies to 321 < 236.
Therefore, 321 is the smallest number among the given options.
Incorrect Options:
- 240: This value is greater than 236, which is equal to 418 and 812. Hence, it is not the smallest.
- 418: This value is equal to 236. As established, 321 is smaller than 236. Therefore, 418 is not the smallest.
- 812: This value is also equal to 236. Since 321 is smaller than 236, 812 is not the smallest.