p is thrice as good a workman as q and therefore able to finish a job in 48 days less than q. working together, they can do it in?

p is thrice as good a workman as q and therefore able to finish a job in 48 days less than q. working together, they can do it in?

The Correct answer is 18 days.

Explanation

Step 1: Define variables

• Let x be the number of days it takes Q to complete the job alone.
• Let y be the number of days it takes P and Q to complete the job together.

Step 2: Translate the information into equations

1. P is thrice as good as Q: This means P can finish the job in x / 3 days.
2. P finishes the job 48 days less than Q: This translates to the equation x - 48 = x / 3.

Step 3: Solve for x

• Combine like terms in the second equation: 2x / 3 = 48
• To isolate x, multiply both sides by 3/2: x = 72

Step 4: Find the time taken when working together (y)

1. Substitute the value of x (72) into the equation from Step 1: 4/x = 1/y
2. Substitute x = 72: 4/72 = 1/y
3. To isolate y, multiply both sides by 72y: 4 = y

Therefore, working together, P and Q can finish the job in 18 days.