Alligation or Mixture
1. In what ratio must a grocer mix two varieties of pulses costing Rs.15 and Rs. 20 per kg respectively so as to get a mixture worth Rs.16.50 per kg?

We use the allegation method 1. Cost of pulses: Rs. 15/kg and Rs. 20/kg. 2. Desired cost: Rs. 16.50/kg. Step-by-step: • Difference between Rs. 20 and Rs. 16.50 = 3.50. • Difference between Rs. 16.50 and Rs. 15 = 1.50. Ratio of quantities: Using the rule of allegation, the ratio of the two varieties is inversely proportional to the differences calculated: Ratio = Difference in cost with the second variety / Difference in cost with the first variety Substituting the values: Ratio = 3.50 / 1.50 = 7/3 Thus, the grocer must mix the two varieties of pulses in the ratio 7:3