The correct answer is option (A):
40
Let's break down this classic word problem. We're dealing with inverse proportion here: the more men working, the less time it takes to complete the work.
Let 'x' be the original number of men.
The total amount of work can be represented as: (number of men) * (number of days) = constant. Let's call the total work W.
From the problem, we know:
* Scenario 1: x men take 60 days. So, W = x * 60
* Scenario 2: (x + 8) men take (60 - 10) = 50 days. So, W = (x + 8) * 50
Since the work done (W) is the same in both scenarios, we can set up an equation:
x * 60 = (x + 8) * 50
Now, let's solve for x:
60x = 50x + 400
10x = 400
x = 40
Therefore, the original number of men was 40.