A merchant gains or loses, in a bargain, a certain sum. In a second bargain, he gains 680 dollars, and, in a third, loses 80. In the end he finds he has gained 250 dollars, by the three together. How much did he gain or lose bv the first ?  Options.
A) -280  B) 300  C) -350  D) -380  E) None
In this sum, as the profit and loss are opposite in their nature, they must be distinguished by contrary signs. If the profit is marked +, the loss must be -.   Let x = the sum required.   Then according to the statement x + 680 - 80 = 250   And x = -350.   Answer -350
<result>C</result>
A merchant gains or loses, in a bargain, a certain sum. In a second bargain, he gains 680 dollars, and, in a third, loses 80. In the end he finds he has gained 250 dollars, by the three together. How much did he gain or lose bv the first ?