In a mixture two liquids A and B are in the ratio 5 : 3. When 8 litres of mixture are drawn off and the filled with liquid B, the ratio of A and B becomes 1 : 1. How many liters of liquid A was there initially?

25

Method one:

The ratio   A   :   B

                5   :    3

So, the answer will be in the multiple of (5). Therefore, 25 liters is the answer.

Method two:

               A   :   B

               5   :   3

                        ↓+2R = 8 ltrs

               5   :   5            (from 1 : 1)

1R = 4

Final Qty. 10R  = 10 × 4 = 40 liters = Initial Qty.

Initial ratio = 5   :   3   =    8

8R = 40

1R = 5

Qty. of A initially = 5R = 5 × 5 = 25 liters