Final answer:
To find the fourth term of a geometric progression, we set up equations based on the given information and solve for the values of the first term and common ratio. Then, we use these values to find the fourth term. In this case, the fourth term is 144 (option C).
Step-by-step explanation:
Let's say the first term of the geometric progression is a and the common ratio is r. Based on the information given, we can set up two equations:
- a * r^2 - a = 42
- a * r^3 - a * r = 168
From the first equation, we can solve for r in terms of a. Substituting this value into the second equation, we can solve for a. Finally, we can use the obtained values of a and r to find the fourth term of the progression.
After solving the equations, we find that a = 36 and r = 2. Therefore, the fourth term of the progression is 144 (option C).