In an election, 25% voters did not vote. Out of the votes polled, 20% were declared invalid. The winner secured 60% of the valid votes and defeated his rival by 2,400 votes. Find the total number of voters.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Given:
25% of voters did not cast their votes.
20% of the votes cast were invalid.
The winner received 60% of the valid votes.
Winning margin = 2400
According to the formula:
Total voters = x
Voters who cast their votes = 75% × x = 0.75x
Valid votes = 80% × 0.75x = 0.6x
Winner's votes = 60% × 0.6x = 0.36x
Opponent's votes = 40% × 0.6x = 0.24x
Winning margin = 0.36x − 0.24x = 0.12x
As per the problem:
0.12x = 2400
x = 2400 / 0.12 = 20,000