An item is sold at a loss of 10%. Had it sold for Rs. 9 more, a profit of 25/2% would have gained. What is the cost price of the item?

Let the cost price of the item = Rs. 50

Sold at 10% loss => for Rs. 50 loss  S.P = Rs. 45

From the  given data,

25/2 % gain if it is sold at Rs. 9 more

56.25 - 45 = 9

=> 11.25 = 9

=> 22.5 = 18

=> 45 = 36

=> 50 = ?

=>  $C.P = \frac{50 x 36}{45} = 40$

Hence, the Cost price of the item = Rs. 40.