12 monkeys can eat 12 bananas in 12 minutes then 4 monkeys will eat 4 bananas in?

Appeared in: SGPGI Nursing Officer-2023

Explanation

The initial information establishes that 12 monkeys eat 12 bananas in 12 minutes.
This implies that each monkey eats one banana, and the time taken for one monkey to eat one banana is 12 minutes.
When there are 4 monkeys and 4 bananas, each monkey takes one banana.
Since the rate of eating for a single monkey is constant (1 banana in 12 minutes), the time for the group of 4 to finish their 4 bananas is also 12 minutes.

Option A: This is an arbitrary number with no logical connection to the rates established in the problem.
Option B: This is a common incorrect guess, assuming a direct 1:1 relationship (e.g., 4 monkeys, 4 bananas, 4 minutes). It wrongly implies that the time changes with the number of monkeys, but the problem shows that one monkey takes 12 minutes for one banana.
Option C: This is another arbitrary value that does not follow from the logic of the work-rate calculation.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Work-Rate Problems as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests logical reasoning and problem-solving skills, which are essential for nurses in making quick, sound decisions in clinical settings.
While not a clinical question, the ability to analyze rates (like IV drip rates or medication timing) uses similar analytical thinking.
What if the question was 'how long for 1 monkey to eat 2 bananas?' The answer would be 24 minutes (12 minutes per banana x 2 bananas).

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the type of question. This is a classic work-rate or logic puzzle.
Carefully read the initial condition: 12 monkeys eat 12 bananas in 12 minutes.
Determine the rate of a single unit (one monkey). Don't assume a 1:1:1 relationship. The key insight is that it takes one monkey 12 minutes to eat one banana.
Apply this individual rate to the new scenario presented in the question (4 monkeys and 4 bananas).
Since each of the 4 monkeys eats one banana, and each takes 12 minutes, the total time for the group is 12 minutes.
Double-check your logic and avoid common pitfalls like assuming the time must change just because the number of monkeys and bananas changed.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full SGPGI Nursing Officer-2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.