SOLUTION: Sarah leaves Seattle for New York in her car, averaging 80 mph across open country. One hour later a plane leaves Seattle for new york following the same route and flying 400 mph.

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Question 393684: Sarah leaves Seattle for New York in her car, averaging 80 mph across open country. One hour later a plane leaves Seattle for new york following the same route and flying 400 mph. how long will it be before the plane overtakes the car?
Found 2 solutions by Alan3354, ewatrrr:
Answer by Alan3354(69443) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Sarah leaves Seattle for New York in her car, averaging 80 mph across open country. One hour later a plane leaves Seattle for new york following the same route and flying 400 mph. how long will it be before the plane overtakes the car?
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Sarah is 80 miles ahead (80 * 1)
The plane gains on her at 320 mph (400 - 80)
80/320 = 1/4 hour
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Answer by ewatrrr(24785) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!


Hi

Let x represent the amount of time  before the plane overtakes the car

D = r*t, distance traveled the same for both car and plane

Question States***

 80mph(x + 1hr) = 400mph*x

solving for x

        80 = 320x

         x = 1/4hr, the amount of time  before the plane overtakes the car

CHECKING our Answer

  80*5/4 = 1/4*400 = 100mi  (the distance traveled by both when plane passes)