Solve for the unknown number (represented by ?) in the equation 40% of (244 × ?) = 48, and choose the correct value of ? from the options.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests basic algebra combined with percentage understanding. We are given that 40 percent of the product of 244 and an unknown number equals 48. The task is to find the unknown number. Such problems are common in aptitude exams and serve to assess comfort with converting percentages to fractions and solving simple equations.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- Equation: 40% of (244 × ?) = 48.
- 40% means 40/100 or 0.40.
- 244 is a constant multiplier with the unknown ?.
- We must find the value of ? that satisfies the equation.

Concept / Approach:
First, convert the percentage to a fraction. Then rewrite the statement “40% of (244 × ?)” as (40/100) * 244 * ?. This gives a linear equation in ?. We then simplify the constants and solve for ?. Finally, we match our result with the options, which are given in fractional form.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Start with 40% of (244 × ?) = 48. Convert 40% to a fraction: 40% = 40/100 = 2/5. So (2/5) * 244 * ? = 48. Compute (2/5) * 244. First 244 * 2 = 488. Then 488 / 5 = 97.6, so the equation becomes 97.6 * ? = 48. Solve for ?: ? = 48 / 97.6. Write 97.6 as 488/5. Then 48 / 97.6 = 48 / (488/5) = 48 * 5 / 488. This equals 240 / 488. Divide numerator and denominator by 8 to simplify. 240 / 488 simplifies to 30 / 61. Thus, ? = 30/61.

Verification / Alternative check:
Substitute ? = 30/61 back into the original expression. Compute 244 * (30/61). Since 244/61 = 4, this becomes 4 * 30 = 120. Now 40% of 120 is (2/5) * 120 = 48, matching the given value. This confirms that 30/61 is correct.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option 61/30 is the reciprocal of the correct answer and would yield a much larger product, not 48.
Option 24/61 is about half of 30/61 and would not satisfy the equation when substituted.
Option 30/24 simplifies to 5/4 and is far too large; using it would make 40% of 244 × ? much greater than 48.

Common Pitfalls:
Common mistakes include misinterpreting 40% as 4/10 rather than 2/5, or incorrectly handling division by a decimal like 97.6. Using exact fractional forms instead of decimals whenever possible can reduce rounding and calculation errors.

Final Answer:
The value of the unknown number ? that satisfies the equation is 30/61.