Solution: Decoding 'E'

This problem requires us to find the specific code used for the letter 'E' within a given coded language. We must analyze the provided examples to understand the coding rule.

Word Codes Analysis

We are given the following coded words:

• 'FAST' corresponds to 'btug'
• 'RIPE' corresponds to 'sqfj'
• 'LOVE' corresponds to 'pwfm'
• 'TABLE' corresponds to 'ubcfm'

Code for 'E' Identification

To find the code for 'E', we look for its occurrence in the original words:

• In 'RIPE', 'E' is coded as 'j'.
• In 'LOVE', 'E' is coded as 'm'.
• In 'TABLE', 'E' is coded as 'm'.

The direct mapping shows variations ('j' and 'm'), indicating the code might not be a simple substitution cipher.

Alphabetical Shift Logic Application

Let's examine the alphabetical positions and potential shifts to the options provided (j, m, f, p).

• The letter 'E' is the 5th letter of the alphabet ($E = 5$).
• Calculate the shift from 'E' to each option:
  • To 'j' (10th letter): Shift = $10 - 5 = +5$.
  • To 'm' (13th letter): Shift = $13 - 5 = +8$.
  • To 'f' (6th letter): Shift = $6 - 5 = +1$.
  • To 'p' (16th letter): Shift = $16 - 5 = +11$.

The shift of $+1$ from 'E' results in 'f'. This represents the smallest positive shift among the options, providing a consistent method to arrive at the code 'f'.