Q. How many 3-digit natural numbers (without repetition of digits) are there such that each digit is odd and the number is divisible by 5?
a. 8
b. 12
c. 16
d. 24
Correct Answer: b.12
Question from UPSC Prelims 2022 CSAT Paper
Explanation :
How many 3 digit natural numbers ??
Given conditions:
– Must be a 3-digit number
– All digits must be odd
– No repetition of digits allowed
– Number must be divisible by 5
Solution steps:
1. For divisibility by 5:
– Last digit must be either 0 or 5
– Since only odd digits allowed, last digit must be 5
2. Available odd digits: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9
– 5 is already used in units place
– Remaining digits for other positions: 1, 3, 7, 9
3. Filling other positions:
– Hundreds place: 4 choices (1, 3, 7, 9)
– Tens place: 3 choices (remaining digits after hundreds place)
4. Total possible numbers:
– Using multiplication principle
– 4 × 3 = 12 different numbers
Answer: 12 three-digit numbers possible