Question 4

An odd number of canoes

The company must have bought an odd number of canoes, which is consistent with the total cost of $3279 and the prices paid for each item.

A) I only

This option is correct because the total cost of $3279 can be explained by purchasing an odd number of canoes, while the costs associated with kayaks and life jackets can be adjusted to fit an even total without contradicting the oddity of the canoes.

B) II only

This option is incorrect. While it is possible to purchase an even number of kayaks, it does not directly relate to the total cost constraint of $3279 and does not guarantee that the company must have bought an even number of kayaks.

C) III only

This option is incorrect as well. The total cost structure does not necessitate an even number of life jackets. The evenness of life jackets does not align with the odd requirement established by the canoes.

D) I and III only

This option is incorrect because, although it acknowledges the odd number of canoes, it incorrectly includes the requirement for life jackets to be even, which is not a necessary condition based on the price constraints.

E) I II and III

This option is incorrect since it asserts that all three conditions must be met. However, only the oddity of the canoes is required, and the evenness of kayaks and life jackets is not a necessity in this context.

Conclusion

The correct answer is A, as it identifies the odd number of canoes as the only definitive requirement based on the total cost provided. The other options either impose unnecessary conditions or fail to align with the financial parameters of the problem. Thus, the analysis clearly supports that only an odd number of canoes must have been purchased.