Finding an Individual's Time from a Trio's Combined Time A can do the work in 24 days, B in 30 days, and together with C they finish in 12 days. How long would C take to complete the work alone?
Correct Answer: 120 days
Introduction / Context:We are given two individual times and a combined time with a third worker. Convert to rates and solve for C's rate by subtraction, then invert to get C's solo time.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- A: 24 days ⇒ 1/24 per day.
- B: 30 days ⇒ 1/30 per day.
- A + B + C: 12 days ⇒ 1/12 per day.
Concept / Approach:r_C = r_total − (r_A + r_B). Then time_C = 1/r_C.
Step-by-Step Solution:r_A + r_B = 1/24 + 1/30 = (5 + 4)/120 = 9/120 = 3/40.r_total = 1/12 = 10/120.r_C = 10/120 − 9/120 = 1/120.C alone time = 1 / (1/120) = 120 days.
Verification / Alternative check:Rates add up: 1/24 + 1/30 + 1/120 = 1/12, confirming consistency.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:100, 125, 72, or 90 days do not match the rate difference result.
Common Pitfalls:Arithmetic slips when adding fractions; always use a common denominator.
Final Answer:120 days