Two numbers are in the ratio 7 : 9. If the sum of the numbers is 288, then the smaller number is

1. 126
2. 162
3. 112
4. 144

Since, two numbers are in the ratio 7 : 9, let the numbers be 7x, 9x.

Given, the sum of two numbers = 288.

∴ 7x + 9x = 288
⇒ 16x = 288
⇒ x = $\dfrac{288}{16}$
⇒ x = 18.

Smaller number = 7x = 126.

∴ Option 1 is the correct option.