UPSC CSE Prelims 2015

Correct Option

To determine the comparative expenditure on food by Family A and Family B, the absolute amounts spent must be calculated based on their total expenditures and the respective proportions allocated to food.

• For Family A:
  • Total expenditure = ₹20,000.
  • Proportion of expenditure on food = 50%.
  • Absolute expenditure on food = $$\frac{50}{100}\times 20000$$ = ₹10,000.
• For Family B:
  • Total expenditure = ₹1,00,000.
  • Proportion of expenditure on food = 10%.
  • Absolute expenditure on food = $$\frac{10}{100}\times 1,00,000$$ = ₹10,000.

Since both Family A and Family B spent ₹10,000 on food, their expenditures on this item are equal.

Incorrect Options

• Options 1 ("Family A spent more money on food than Family B") and 2 ("Family B spent more money on food than Family A") are incorrect. The calculations demonstrate that both families incurred an identical expenditure of ₹10,000 on food.
• Option 4 ("The expenditure on food by Family A and Family B cannot be compared") is incorrect. The necessary data, including the total expenditure for each family and the proportion allocated to food, is available, allowing for a direct and precise comparison of their absolute expenditures.