What is the average of the first ten natural numbers?

Appeared in: KGMU 2023

Explanation

The average is found by dividing the sum of the numbers by the count of the numbers.
The first ten natural numbers are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.
The sum of these numbers is 55.
The average is the sum (55) divided by the count (10), which equals 5.5.
Alternatively, the formula for the average of the first 'n' natural numbers is (n + 1) / 2. For n=10, the average is (10 + 1) / 2 = 5.5.

Option B: This value would be the average if the sum of the first ten natural numbers was 45, which is incorrect. The actual sum is 55.
Option C: This value would be the average if the sum of the first ten natural numbers was 50. The actual sum is 55.
Option D: This value would be the average if the sum of the first ten natural numbers was 65. The actual sum is 55.

Visual 1: No visual is required for this type of mathematical calculation question.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Average of first 'n' natural numbers as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests basic mathematical aptitude, which is a fundamental skill for nurses.
Nurses frequently use arithmetic for critical calculations, including medication dosage, IV drip rates, fluid balance charting, and interpreting lab results.
A strong foundation in mathematics ensures patient safety by preventing calculation errors that could lead to adverse outcomes.

How to Approach the Question

First, understand the question's components: it asks for the 'average' of the 'first ten natural numbers'.
Recall the definition of natural numbers: positive integers starting from 1 (1, 2, 3, ...).
List the specific numbers required: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10.
Recall the formula for average (mean): Sum of all values divided by the number of values.
Calculate the sum of the numbers. You can add them directly (1+2+...+10 = 55) or use the formula for the sum of the first 'n' integers: n(n+1)/2, which is 10(11)/2 = 55.
Divide the sum (55) by the count of numbers (10) to get the average: 55 / 10 = 5.5.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full KGMU 2023

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