How many pieces of 85 cm length can be cut from a rod 42.5 metres long?
Aptitude
Simplification
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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A30
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B40
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C60
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DNone of these
Answer
Correct Answer: None of these
Explanation
### Concept & Strategy
Before dividing a total length by a piece length, you must standardize the units. Both values must be in either meters or centimeters.
$$Number\ of\ Pieces = \frac{Total\ Length\ (in\ cm)}{Length\ per\ Piece\ (in\ cm)}$$
### Step-by-Step Solution
* **Given:**
* Rod length = 42.5 meters
* Piece length = 85 cm
* **Calculation:**
1. Convert the total rod length from meters to centimeters (since 1 meter = 100 cm):
$42.5 \times 100 = 4250$ cm.
2. Divide the total length by the length of a single piece to find the count:
$4250 / 85 = 50$ pieces.
3. Look at the options provided: (a) 30, (b) 40, (c) 60. Since 50 is not listed, the correct choice is 'None of these'.
### Exam Strategy & Shortcut
Look at the numerical relationship between the significant digits. $85$ is exactly double $42.5$.
So, $42.5 / 85$ is $0.5$. Because of the meter-to-centimeter conversion factor of 100, you just multiply $0.5 \times 100 = 50$. Since 50 isn't an option, select 'None of these' instantly.
### Common Pitfall
The primary mistake here is failing to convert units, leading students to divide $42.5$ by $85$ directly and getting $0.5$, or multiplying incorrectly and landing on a distractor. Always harmonize units before operating on them.
### Final Answer
**Therefore, the correct answer is None of these.**