Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: 4 1/3
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:This compares Mohan’s solo period (after Krishna leaves) to the full duration if both had worked together from start. Compute remaining work after 3 joint days, then Mohan’s solo time, and subtract the “together-from-start” time.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:Let RT = combined rate = 1/10 + 1/20 = 3/20 job/day. Work done in first 3 days = 3 * (3/20) = 9/20. Remainder = 11/20. Mohan alone needs (11/20)/(1/20) days. Compare this solo duration to the time needed if both had done the entire work together (which is 1 / (3/20)).
Step-by-Step Solution:
Remaining after 3 days = 1 − 9/20 = 11/20.Mohan-alone time for remainder = (11/20) / (1/20) = 11 days.Time if both worked together for whole job = 1 / (3/20) = 20/3 = 6 2/3 days.Difference = 11 − 20/3 = (33 − 20)/3 = 13/3 = 4 1/3 days.Verification / Alternative check:Compute total actual duration: 3 + 11 = 14 days. The comparison baseline (both together entire time) is 6 2/3 days; the excess in Mohan’s solo period beyond that baseline equals 4 1/3 as derived.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:3 1/4, 23/5, 3 2/3, 4 1/2 do not match the exact fraction 13/3.
Common Pitfalls:Comparing against the initial 3 days instead of “together-from-start”; forgetting to convert to a common baseline.
Final Answer:4 1/3
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