Explanation

Given Information:

• A lifter loads 200 packages per hour.
• A labor loads two quarters (i.e., 2/4 or 1/2) less than 200 packages per hour.
  • 1​/2×200=100
  • So, the labor loads 200 - 100 = 100 packages per hour.
• Together, the lifter and labor load:
  $$200+100=300\text{ packages per hour}$$
• They need to load 1500 packages.
• They take 30 minutes (0.5 hours) rest after every 2 hours of loading.

Step 1: Calculate Total Loading Time Without Breaks

1500/300​=5 hours

So, if they were working continuously, they would need exactly 5 hours.

Step 2: Account for Breaks

• They work for 2 hours, then take a 30-minute (0.5-hour) break.
• In 2 hours, they load:
  $$2\times 300=600\text{ packages}$$
• After 2 hours, they take a 0.5-hour break.
• Continuing this cycle:
  • First 2 hours: 600 packages (then a 30-minute break)
  • Next 2 hours: 600 packages (then a 30-minute break)
  • Remaining: 300 packages, which takes 1 more hour (no need for another break).

Total time including breaks:

$$2+0.5+2+0.5+1=5.5\text{ hours}$$

Step 3: Select the Correct Answer

$$(\mathbf{b})5.5\text{ hours}$$