The sum of the squares of three numbers is 138, while the sum of their products taken two at a time is 131. Their sum is:

A. 20

B. 30

C. 40

D. None of these

Answer: Option A

Solution(By Examveda Team)

Let the numbers be a, b and c
Then, a² + b² + c² = 138 and (ab + bc + ca) = 131
(a + b + c)² = a² + b² + c² + 2(ab + bc + ca) = 138 + 2 x 131 = 400
⇒ (a + b + c) = $$\sqrt {400} $$  = 20