Isolating one worker’s time from group times: Ganesh, Ram, and Sohan together can do a work in 16 days. Ganesh and Ram together can do the same work in 24 days. How long will Sohan alone take to complete the work?

Introduction / Context:
Subtract the pair rate from the triple rate to isolate Sohan’s rate, then invert to get his time alone.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• G + R + S = 1/16 per day.
• G + R = 1/24 per day.

Concept / Approach:
Sohan’s rate = (G + R + S) − (G + R) = 1/16 − 1/24.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1/16 − 1/24 = (3 − 2)/48 = 1/48.Sohan alone time = 1 / (1/48) = 48 days.

Verification / Alternative check:
Check: 1/24 + 1/48 = 1/16 ⇒ consistent.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
24, 36, 42, 40 days contradict the computed rate difference.

Common Pitfalls:
Adding 16 and 24 or taking an average instead of subtracting rates.

Final Answer:
48 days