Word Problems Math Example 4

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Example 4

hard
Two trains leave the same station at the same time, travelling in opposite directions. One train travels at 65 km/h and the other at 85 km/h. After how many hours will they be 450 km apart?

Solution

  1. 1
    Combined speed (travelling apart): 65+85=15065 + 85 = 150 km/h.
  2. 2
    Use distance = rate ×\times time: 450=150t450 = 150t.
  3. 3
    Solve: t=450150=3t = \frac{450}{150} = 3 hours.

Answer

3 hours3 \text{ hours}
When two objects move in opposite directions, their separation speed is the sum of their individual speeds. Apply the distance formula to find the time.

About Word Problems

Word problems require translating a real-world scenario described in natural language into mathematical relationships, identifying the unknown quantity, setting up equations or expressions, and solving them to answer the question.

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