In a population of 500 snakes, 12% are males and the rest are females. If a mating pair consists of one male and one female, how many distinct mating pairs can be formed?
Answer
26,400
The correct answer is 26,400 — Therefore 26,400 distinct mating pairs can be formed.
Step-by-step solution
- Compute number of male snakes: 12% of 500 = 0.12 × 500 = 60.
- Compute number of female snakes: 500 − 60 = 440.
- Each distinct pair requires one male and one female.
- Multiply the counts to get distinct pairs: 60 × 440 = 26,400.
- Therefore 26,400 distinct mating pairs can be formed.
Common mistake: Treating pair selection as combinations rather than permutations
Concept tested: Combinatorial pairing in populations
Published · How this solution was prepared and checked
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