If 25% of a number is 50, what is the number?

Appeared in: AIIMS BHOPAL NO- 2018( Shift-2nd)

Explanation

The problem can be translated into the algebraic equation: 0.25 * x = 50, where 'x' is the unknown number.
To solve for 'x', you isolate it by dividing both sides of the equation by 0.25.
The calculation is x = 50 / 0.25, which equals 200.
Alternatively, 25% is equivalent to the fraction 1/4. If one-quarter of a number is 50, the whole number is found by multiplying 50 by 4, which is 200.

Option A: 25% of 100 is 25, not 50. This is a common distractor that tests basic percentage understanding.
Option B: 25% of 150 is 37.5, which is not 50. This is an incorrect calculation.
Option D: 25% of 250 is 62.5, not 50. This is an incorrect calculation.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Solving basic percentage equations as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Accurate percentage calculation is a fundamental skill in nursing, essential for tasks like drug dosage calculations, interpreting lab value changes, and managing nutritional plans.
For example, a nurse might need to prepare a solution that is diluted to 25% of its original concentration, requiring precise calculation of volumes.
What if the question was '50 is 25% less than a number'? The equation would change to x - 0.25x = 50, or 0.75x = 50, leading to x ≈ 66.67. This highlights the importance of carefully reading the problem statement to distinguish between 'is' and 'is less than'.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key parts of the problem: the percentage (25%), the partial value (50), and the unknown total value (the number).
Translate the sentence '25% of a number is 50' into a mathematical equation. In math, 'of' typically means multiplication, and 'is' means equals.
Convert the percentage to a decimal or a fraction for easier calculation (25% = 0.25 or 1/4).
Set up the equation: 0.25 * x = 50, where 'x' is the number you need to find.
Solve for 'x' by isolating it. To do this, divide both sides of the equation by 0.25.
Perform the calculation: x = 50 / 0.25, which gives you the answer 200. Finally, check your answer by calculating 25% of 200 to ensure it equals 50.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full AIIMS BHOPAL NO- 2018( Shift-2nd)

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