SOLUTION: A cyclist bikes at a constant speed for 18 miles. He then returns home at the same speed but takes a different route. His return trip takes one hour longer and is 23 miles. find hi

Question 509196: A cyclist bikes at a constant speed for 18 miles. He then returns home at the same speed but takes a different route. His return trip takes one hour longer and is 23 miles. find his speed.
Answer by htmentor(1343) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
A cyclist bikes at a constant speed for 18 miles. He then returns home at the same speed but takes a different route. His return trip takes one hour longer and is 23 miles. find his speed.
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Let s = the cyclist's speed
Let t = the time for the 18 mile trip
The speed of the outbound trip = s = 18/t [1]
The speed of the return trip = s = 23/(t+1) [2]
Solve for t in [1], substitute into [2]:
s = 23/(18/s + 1)
Solve for s:
18 + s = 23
s = 5 mph
Check:
t = 18/5 = 3.6 h
t + 1 = 23/5 = 4.6 h
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