A man has 1044 candles. After burning, he can make a new candle from 9 stubs left behind. Find the maximum number of candles that can be made.
(a)116
(b)120
(c)130
(d)140
Answer
Answer (as printed): C
Explanation
1044 candles produce 1044 butts, from which $\frac{1044}{9}=116$ candles can be formed. The resultant 116 butts give $\frac{116}{9}$ i.e., 12 candles and 8 butts. 12 resultant butts plus 8 remaining butts = 20 butts from which $\frac{20}{9}$ i.e., 2 candles and 2 butts will be obtained. In the end, 4 butts will be left behind. ∴ Total number of candles formed $$=(116+12+2)=130 .$$
Explanation as extracted from the printed page; notation may be imperfect.