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Question

In a village consisting of \(p\) persons, \(x\)% can read and write. Of the males, only \(y\)% can read and write. Of the females, only \(z\)% can read and write. If \(x, y > z\), then what is the number of males in the village?

This question was previously asked in
CDS 2 2025 Maths Question Paper (14-Sep-2025)
The correct answer is
\(p(x-z)/(y-z)\)

Problem Understanding: Finding Village Male Population

The question asks us to determine the total number of males in a village based on its total population, the overall literacy percentage, the literacy percentage among males, and the literacy percentage among females. We are given specific conditions (\(x, y > z\)) which help ensure the result is meaningful.

Defining Variables for Calculation

Let's define the variables involved in the problem:

  • Total village population = \(p\) persons
  • Percentage of people who can read and write (literate) = \(x\)%$
  • Percentage of males who can read and write (literate males) = \(y\)%$
  • Percentage of females who can read and write (literate females) = \(z\)%$
  • Let \(M\) represent the total number of males in the village.
  • Let \(F\) represent the total number of females in the village.

Setting Up Equations for Literacy

We can express the number of literate individuals using the given percentages:

  • Total number of literate people in the village = \((x/100) \times p\)
  • Number of literate males = \((y/100) \times M\)
  • Number of literate females = \((z/100) \times F\)

The total number of literate people is the sum of literate males and literate females:

\(\frac{x}{100} \times p = \left(\frac{y}{100} \times M\right) + \left(\frac{z}{100} \times F\right)\)

To simplify, we can multiply the entire equation by 100:

\(xp = yM + zF \quad (*)\)

Relating Males and Females

We know that the total population is the sum of males and females:

\(M + F = p\)

From this, we can express the number of females in terms of the number of males and the total population:

\(F = p - M\)

Solving for the Number of Males

Now, substitute the expression for \(F\) into the equation \((*)\):

\(xp = yM + z(p - M)\)

Distribute \(z\) on the right side:

\(xp = yM + zp - zM\)

Our goal is to find \(M\). Let's gather all terms containing \(M\) on one side and the other terms on the other side:

\(xp - zp = yM - zM\)

Factor out \(p\) on the left side and \(M\) on the right side:

\(p(x - z) = M(y - z)\)

Finally, isolate \(M\) by dividing both sides by \((y - z)\). Note that since we are given \(y > z\), the term \((y-z)\) is not zero and is positive.

\(M = \frac{p(x - z)}{y - z}\)

Conclusion

The derived formula for the number of males in the village is \(M = \frac{p(x-z)}{y-z}\). This matches the first option provided.

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