SOLUTION: A speedboat travels at a rate of 20 kph in still water. It travels 55 km upstream in the same time that it travels 90 km downstream. What is the rate of the current?

Algebra ->  Rate-of-work-word-problems -> SOLUTION: A speedboat travels at a rate of 20 kph in still water. It travels 55 km upstream in the same time that it travels 90 km downstream. What is the rate of the current?      Log On


   

Question 1170602: A speedboat travels at a rate of 20 kph in still water. It travels 55 km upstream in the same time
that it travels 90 km downstream. What is the rate of the current?
Answer by josgarithmetic(39620) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
                  SPEED       TIME            DISTANCE
UPSTREAM          20-c        55/(20-c)          55
DOWNSTRE          20+c        90/(20+c)          90

The two times are described as being equal.
55%2F%2820-c%29=90%2F%2820%2Bc%29-----simplify and solve.