SOLUTION: A canoe covers a distance of 40 miles downstream in 6 hours. Returning upstream, it takes the canoe three times as long to cover 3/5 the distance. Find the rate of the current and

If you need immediate math help from PAID TUTORS right now, click here. (paid link)
Click here to see ALL problems on Travel Word Problems

Question 603473: A canoe covers a distance of 40 miles downstream in 6 hours. Returning upstream, it takes the canoe three times as long to cover 3/5 the distance. Find the rate of the current and the rate of the canoe in still water.
Note: The answer alone is insufficient. You must not only show your work (define your variables and write two equations, solving the system) but also explain your process in order to receive full credit for you answer.
Answer by scott8148(6628) (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
let s=rate of stream (current) and c=rate of canoe

going downstream, the rates add ___ going upstream, the current is subtracted from the canoe
___ the calculations are in miles and hours

r = d / t

down ___ c + s = 40 / 6 = 20/3

up ___ c - s = [(3/5) * 40] / (3 * 6) = 4/3

adding the equations (eliminating s) ___ 2c = 24/3 ___ c = 4 mph

substituting (to find s) ___ (4) + s = 20/3 ___ s = 20/3 - 12/3 = 8/3 mph