Based on the data on the expenses of middle-class families in a certa…

The correct answer is Option (3) → 131.63

The Cost-of-Living Index ($I$) is calculated as:

$I = \frac{\sum P_1}{\sum P_0} \times 100$

Where:

• $\sum P_1$ = Total expenses in the current year (2003)
• $\sum P_0$ = Total expenses in the base year (1990)

Calculation Table

Expense Category	Price in 1990 ($P_0$​)	Price in 2003 ($P_1$​)
Food	1400	1500
Fuel	200	250
Clothing	400	750
Rent	200	300
Miscellaneous	250	425
Total	$\sum P_0 = 2450$	$\sum P_1 = 3225$

 

Apply the formula:

$I = \frac{3225}{2450} \times 100$

$I \approx 1.31632 \times 100$

$I = 131.63$