Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: 60
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Given three pairwise completion times, we can find the sum of individual rates and then isolate the rate for a single worker by subtracting an appropriate pair rate. This is a classic system-of-rates problem.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Sum: 2(A + B + C) rate = 1/12 + 1/15 + 1/20. Then (A + B + C) rate = half of that. C's rate = (A + B + C) − (A + B).
Step-by-Step Solution:
1/12 + 1/15 + 1/20 = (5 + 4 + 3)/60 = 12/60 = 1/5.(A + B + C) rate = (1/5)/2 = 1/10.C's rate = 1/10 − 1/12 = (6 − 5)/60 = 1/60.C alone time = 60 days.
Verification / Alternative check:
Compute A and B similarly if desired; all rates are consistent.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Any time other than 60 contradicts the derived rate 1/60.
Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to divide by 2 after summing the three pairwise rates.
Final Answer:
60
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