PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
WBPSC Miscellaneous Preliminary 2023
Answer
14 seconds
Explanation
The time taken by a clock to strike depends on the number of intervals between the strikes, not the strikes themselves. To strike 4, there are 3 intervals. The time for 3 intervals is 6 seconds. Thus, 1 interval takes \\( \\frac{6}{3} = 2 \\) seconds. To strike 8, there are 7 intervals. The time taken for 7 intervals will be \\( 7 \\times 2 = 14 \\) seconds.
Key Points
- > Always count the 'intervals' between the strikes in such problems.
- > Number of intervals = Total strikes - 1.
- > Intervals for 4 strikes = (4-1) = 3.
- > Intervals for 8 strikes = (8-1) = 7.
- > The duration of each interval is constant.
- > Time for 1 interval = \\( \\frac{6}{3} = 2 \\) seconds.
- > Total time = Number of intervals \\( \\times \\) time per interval.
Additional Information
Clock Striking Logic
| Strikes | Intervals | Total Time | Calculation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 o'clock | 3 | 6 seconds | 3 \\( \\times \\) 2 |
| 8 o'clock | 7 | 14 seconds | 7 \\( \\times \\) 2 |
| 12 o'clock | 11 | 22 seconds | 11 \\( \\times \\) 2 |
Memory Tips
- Minus One Rule: Always subtract 1 from the number of strikes to get the active gaps (intervals) that actually consume time.