Simple Interest — The sum of money that amounts to ₹ 364.80 in 8 years at 3.5% simple interest per annum is:

Introduction / Context:
Reverse-calculating principal from amount under simple interest is a standard manipulation of A = P * (1 + r * t).

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A = ₹ 364.80.
• r = 3.5% = 0.035 per annum.
• t = 8 years.

Concept / Approach:
P = A / (1 + r * t) with linear growth under simple interest.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1 + r * t = 1 + 0.035 * 8 = 1 + 0.28 = 1.28.P = 364.80 / 1.28 = ₹ 285.

Verification / Alternative check:
SI = P * r * t = 285 * 0.035 * 8 = 79.80; Amount = 285 + 79.80 = 364.80.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
₹ 280, ₹ 275, ₹ 270, ₹ 300 do not yield the given amount when forward checked.

Common Pitfalls:
Mixing up 3.5% with 0.35; remember to divide by 100.

Final Answer:
₹ 285