In a class, the number of girls is three times the number of boys. Which of the following numbers cannot represent the total number of students in the class?

1. A

   36

2. B

   44

3. C

   54

4. D

   52

Appeared in: JSSH Staff Nurse - 2019

Explanation

• The total number of students is the sum of boys (B) and girls (3B), which equals 4B.
• This means the total number of students must be a multiple of 4.
• The number 54 is not a multiple of 4 (54 ÷ 4 = 13.5), so it cannot represent the total number of students.
• The number of students must be a whole number.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

• Option A: The number 36 is a multiple of 4 (36 = 4 × 9). Therefore, it is a possible total for the number of students (9 boys and 27 girls).
• Option B: The number 44 is a multiple of 4 (44 = 4 × 11). Therefore, it is a possible total for the number of students (11 boys and 33 girls).
• Option D: The number 52 is a multiple of 4 (52 = 4 × 13). Therefore, it is a possible total for the number of students (13 boys and 39 girls).

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Clinical Relevance

• Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Divisibility and Ratios in Word Problems as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
• This question tests basic arithmetic and logical reasoning, which are foundational skills for nurses.
• Nurses use ratios and multiplication daily for tasks like calculating medication dosages, determining IV drip rates, and assessing staff-to-patient ratios.
• A strong grasp of these mathematical concepts is crucial for patient safety and effective care delivery.

How to Approach the Question

• First, identify the relationship between the quantities described. Here, it's 'number of girls = 3 × number of boys'.
• Represent this relationship algebraically. Let 'B' be boys, so girls are '3B'.
• Formulate an expression for the total. Total students = B + 3B = 4B.
• From this expression, deduce the underlying mathematical rule: the total must be a multiple of 4.
• Test each option against this rule. The option that does not satisfy the rule is the correct answer.
• Since the question asks what the number cannot be, you are looking for the exception.

Concept Tested & Keywords

• Concept Tested: Divisibility and Ratios in Word Problems
• Stem keywords: number of girls, three times the number of boys, total number of students, class
• Lead-in keywords: cannot represent
• Negative lead-in flag: The question asks which number CANNOT be the total, requiring elimination of possibilities.

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QSjslrFKGdCbxFBsQzctc9

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