A thin iron rod is cut into 10 equal parts parallel to its length. Then how many parts become?

Appeared in: SGPGI Nursing Officer-2024

Explanation

The question is a test of careful reading and logical deduction, not a mathematical calculation.
It explicitly states that the rod is cut 'into 10 equal parts'.
The phrase 'parallel to its length' is descriptive information about the method of cutting and is designed to distract from the core fact.
The final number of parts is directly given in the question stem as 10.

Option B: This is a common mistake where the number of 'cuts' is confused with the number of 'parts'. Making 10 cuts across a rod would indeed produce 11 parts. However, the question specifies the final number of parts, not the number of cuts.
Option C: This number directly contradicts the information provided in the question, which clearly states the rod was cut into 10 parts.
Option D: This number also contradicts the explicit statement in the question. There is no calculation or logic that would lead to 20 parts from the information given.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Logical Reasoning and Reading Comprehension as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This type of question assesses attention to detail and the ability to filter out irrelevant information, which are critical skills for nurses.
In a clinical setting, a nurse must accurately read medication orders, patient charts, and equipment settings. Misinterpreting a number or being distracted by extra details can lead to serious patient safety errors.
What if? If a medication order read 'Administer 10 units of insulin from a multi-dose vial,' the nurse must draw exactly 10 units, not perform 10 separate actions or draw 11 units. The ability to focus on the precise quantity required is paramount.

How to Approach the Question

First, read the question stem very carefully, paying close attention to every word.
Identify the core question being asked: 'how many parts become?'.
Analyze the information provided: 'cut into 10 equal parts'.
Recognize that the phrase 'parallel to its length' is descriptive detail, not a variable for calculation.
Conclude that the answer is explicitly stated in the question itself.
Avoid the common trap of confusing the number of 'parts' with the number of 'cuts' (which would yield n+1 parts).

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full SGPGI Nursing Officer-2024

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