Data Sufficiency — Identify the Three-Digit Number What is the three-digit number? I. Two-fifths of the number equals half of 204. II. 20% of the number equals 51.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Either statement I alone or statement II alone is sufficient.

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
We need only determine whether the number is uniquely fixed from each statement; computing it explicitly is fine as a check but not required by the DS format.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Let the number be N (three-digit).
  • Statement I: (2/5)*N = 204/2 = 102.
  • Statement II: 20% of N = 51.


Concept / Approach:
Each linear relation directly yields a unique N. If either statement gives a unique integer N in the three-digit range, it is sufficient alone.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Using I: (2/5)N = 102 ⇒ N = 102 * (5/2) = 255 (unique).Using II: 0.20 N = 51 ⇒ N = 51 / 0.20 = 255 (unique).


Verification / Alternative check:
Both statements independently return N = 255, which is a valid three-digit number, confirming sufficiency of each alone.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • I alone sufficient or II alone sufficient: Each is true, but the best choice is “Either alone is sufficient”.
  • Both together needed: Not necessary.
  • Even both not sufficient: False; either one suffices.


Common Pitfalls:
Mistaking “two-fifths” as “two-fourths,” or misapplying percentages. Always convert carefully.


Final Answer:
Either statement I alone or statement II alone is sufficient.

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