Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 62000
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question applies the idea of weighted average to the cost of different categories of machines. A factory buys machines of three different types at different prices and you must find the overall average cost per machine. This is a direct application of total cost divided by total quantity, a fundamental concept in averages and cost analysis.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Total machines purchased = 10.
- Number of type A machines = 2, cost per type A machine = Rs 95000.
- Number of type B machines = 3, cost per type B machine = Rs 60000.
- Remaining machines are type C. Since 2 + 3 = 5, remaining = 10 - 5 = 5 type C machines.
- Cost per type C machine = Rs 50000.
- We must compute the average cost per machine for all 10 machines.
Concept / Approach:
The total cost is the sum of the cost of each group: type A, type B and type C. Once we have the total cost, the average cost per machine is simply total cost divided by total number of machines. This is a straightforward weighted average where each type of machine contributes according to its price and count.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Cost of type A machines = 2 * 95000 = Rs 190000.Step 2: Cost of type B machines = 3 * 60000 = Rs 180000.Step 3: Cost of type C machines = 5 * 50000 = Rs 250000.Step 4: Total cost of all machines = 190000 + 180000 + 250000.Step 5: Compute total cost: 190000 + 180000 = 370000; 370000 + 250000 = 620000.Step 6: Total number of machines = 10.Step 7: Average cost per machine = total cost / total number = 620000 / 10 = Rs 62000.Step 8: Therefore, the average cost of each machine is Rs 62000.
Verification / Alternative check:
You can think about the distribution of prices: some machines are relatively expensive (Rs 95000), some are mid range (Rs 60000) and some are cheaper (Rs 50000). With 2 expensive, 3 mid range and 5 cheaper machines, it is reasonable that the average cost lies between 50000 and 95000, leaning closer to the lower side because more machines are cheaper. The answer Rs 62000 satisfies this intuition and matches the exact calculation.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Values like Rs 68333 or Rs 74666 would imply much higher total costs that cannot be obtained from the given individual prices and quantities. A figure like Rs 60500 is close but incorrect when multiplied by 10, and Rs 66000 is clearly larger than the true average. Only Rs 62000 matches the total of Rs 620000 divided by 10 machines.
Common Pitfalls:
Some students mistakenly average the three prices (95000, 60000 and 50000) without considering the different numbers of machines of each type. Others miscount the remaining type C machines. To avoid these errors, always compute group totals first and then divide by the overall quantity for a proper weighted average.
Final Answer:
The average cost per machine is Rs 62000.
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