Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 132.9
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This is a straightforward computation problem designed to test order-of-operations and accurate arithmetic. You must first simplify the left-hand side sum and then solve for the unknown factor in the form ? × 50.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Perform the subtraction and addition in sequence. After obtaining the net total, divide by 50 to get the multiplying factor ?. Keep digits aligned to avoid arithmetic slips.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Multiply back: 132.9 × 50 = 6645, exactly matching the simplified left-hand side. This confirms the division and the arithmetic on the sum.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
123.6, 132.3, 132.6, and 123.9 do not reproduce 6645 when multiplied by 50. Only 132.9 yields the correct original total.
Common Pitfalls:
Adding 2350 instead of subtracting it, or dividing by 5 rather than 50. Some also round prematurely, but the operations here resolve to a terminating decimal exactly.
Final Answer:
132.9
Discussion & Comments