"What approximate value will come in place of the question mark (?) in the expression given below?"

121-058-10-996×15-002+4-0231-24-0829-2-093 =?

1. A

   50

2. B

   157

3. C

   170

4. D

   150

Appeared in: NVS Staff Nurse - 2022

Explanation

• The first step is to approximate the decimal values in the expression to their nearest whole numbers.
• The hyphens in the expression serve a dual purpose: as decimal points (e.g., 121-058 becomes 121) and as arithmetic operators between numbers.
• Interpreting the operators as 121 ÷ 11 × 15 + 4 - 24 ÷ 2 is the key to solving the problem.
• Applying the BODMAS rule (Division, Multiplication, Addition, Subtraction) in the correct order is crucial for accuracy.
• The calculation proceeds as: 11 × 15 + 4 - 12 which simplifies to 165 + 4 - 12, and then 169 - 12, resulting in 157.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

• Option A: This result could be obtained by misinterpreting the operators or performing calculations in the wrong order, for example, by subtracting before multiplying or dividing.
• Option C: This value is very close to the intermediate step of 169 (from 165 + 4). This error likely occurs if the final subtraction of 12 is missed.
• Option D: This is a round number that might be chosen if there are significant errors in approximation or calculation. For instance, incorrectly calculating 11 x 15 as 150 and ignoring other parts of the expression might lead to this.

Related Visual

Clinical Relevance

• Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Approximation and BODMAS rule as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
• This question tests quantitative aptitude and problem-solving skills, which are essential for general competitive examinations, including those for nursing positions.
• While not a direct clinical skill, numerical proficiency is important for tasks like medication dosage calculation, interpreting lab results, and managing patient data.
• What if? If the hyphen between 4 and 24 was also a division sign, the expression would be 121 ÷ 11 × 15 + 4 ÷ 24 ÷ 2. The result would be 165 + (4/24)/2 = 165 + (1/6)/2 = 165 + 1/12, which is approximately 165.08. This highlights the importance of correctly interpreting each operator.

How to Approach the Question

• First, analyze the expression to identify that it's an approximation problem with unusual notation (hyphens for decimals and operators).
• Round off each number with a hyphen-decimal to its nearest whole number (e.g., 121-058 becomes 121).
• Deduce the correct arithmetic operators. Given the format, it's common for hyphens between whole numbers to represent division or subtraction. Test the most logical sequence: 121 ÷ 11 × 15 + 4 - 24 ÷ 2.
• Apply the BODMAS rule to solve the simplified expression: perform Division first, then Multiplication, then Addition, and finally Subtraction.
• Calculate the value step-by-step: 121 ÷ 11 = 11; 24 ÷ 2 = 12; then 11 × 15 = 165; then 165 + 4 = 169; and finally 169 - 12 = 157.
• Select the option that matches your calculated result.

Concept Tested & Keywords

• Concept Tested: Approximation and BODMAS rule
• Stem keywords: approximation, expression, BODMAS, simplification
• Lead-in keywords: approximate value

Question ID

Q-tZtEDIhExwXc283zn-Cy

Copy ID