Symmetry property in percentages: x% of y is equal to y% of what quantity?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: x

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This is a well-known symmetry: x% of y equals y% of x. The question asks you to recognize this and state the quantity for which y% produces the same result as x% of y.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • x% of y = (x/100) * y.
  • We seek Q such that y% of Q equals the same value.


Concept / Approach:
Set (y/100) * Q = (x/100) * y, then solve for Q. Cancellation of y (assuming y ≠ 0) shows the equality directly.


Step-by-Step Solution:

(y/100) * Q = (x/100) * y.Cancel y/100 on both sides ⇒ Q = x.


Verification / Alternative check:
Numeric example: Let x = 30 and y = 50. Then 30% of 50 = 15. Also, 50% of 30 = 15. Hence, Q must be x.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 100x and x/100 scale the value improperly.
  • y/100 and y are unrelated to the required equivalence.


Common Pitfalls:
Overcomplicating with extra factors of 100. Keep the percent-as-fraction representation clear.


Final Answer:
x

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion