Total students in Arts, Commerce, and Science — which statements suffice? I. 20% of the students study Science. II. Numbers studying Arts and Commerce are in the ratio 3 : 5. III. Commerce exceeds Science by 375 students.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: All I, II and III

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
We must find which statements are sufficient to determine the total number of students across three streams (Arts, Commerce, Science).


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • I: Science S = 0.20 * T, where T is total students.
  • II: Arts : Commerce = 3 : 5 ⇒ A = (3/5) * C.
  • III: Commerce exceeds Science by 375 ⇒ C = S + 375.


Concept / Approach:
We need enough independent relations to solve for T. Three unknown categories (A, C, S) with total T require either two independent equations plus T = A + C + S, or equivalent information to eliminate variables.


Step-by-Step Solution:

From I: S = 0.20T.From II: A = 0.6C.From III: C = S + 375 = 0.20T + 375.Total T = A + C + S = 0.6C + C + 0.20T = 1.6C + 0.20T.Thus T − 0.20T = 1.6C ⇒ 0.80T = 1.6C ⇒ C = 0.5T.Using III: 0.5T = 0.20T + 375 ⇒ 0.30T = 375 ⇒ T = 1250.


Verification / Alternative check:
With T known, all categories are determined uniquely (S = 250, C = 625, A = 375). Any pair of statements without the third leaves at least one variable free.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • II and III only: Lacks direct link from S to T.
  • III and either I or II only: III + I lacks the A–C relation; III + II lacks S–T relation.
  • Any two of the three: As shown, two are insufficient.


Common Pitfalls:
Using the ratio to equate A and C incorrectly; forgetting to include T = A + C + S in the system.


Final Answer:
All I, II and III

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