Thread: distance/speed worded problem

A car covers a distance of 200km at a speed ofx km/h. A train covers the same distance at a speed of (x+5) km/h. If the time taken by the car is 2 hourse more than that taken by the train, find x.

Originally Posted by Meg.Fondale

A car covers a distance of 200km at a speed ofx km/h. A train covers the same distance at a speed of (x+5) km/h. If the time taken by the car is 2 hourse more than that taken by the train, find x.

Speed(V) distance(S) and time(T) can be related as V=S/T

so X=200/(t+2)
and (X+5)=200/t

then you can solve for x and t simultaneously

Originally Posted by Meg.Fondale

A car covers a distance of 200km at a speed ofx km/h. A train covers the same distance at a speed of (x+5) km/h. If the time taken by the car is 2 hourse more than that taken by the train, find x.

To learn the general set-up method for "uniform rate" word problems, try here.

Then:

. . .car:
. . . . .distance: 200
. . . . .rate: x
. . . . .time: 200/x

. . .train:
. . . . .distance: 200
. . . . .rate: x + 5
. . . . .time: 200/(x + 5)

Translate the given relationship, "(car's time) is (train's time) plus (two more hours)", into an equation. Solve the rational equation for the value of "x". Back-solve for the required values.

Remember to put appropriate units on your answer!