SOLUTION: Maria and Shannon hike around a lake. They start from the same point but walk in the opposite directions around the 14 mile shoreline. Maria walks 0.8 mph faster then Shannon. How

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Question 294653: Maria and Shannon hike around a lake. They start from the same point but walk in the opposite directions around the 14 mile shoreline. Maria walks 0.8 mph faster then Shannon. How fast does Shannon walk if they meet up in 2 and half hours?
Not even sure where to start
Maria speed is x
Shannon speed is x-.8 mph
time is 5/2
14=(x=x-.8)*(5/2)
Clearly I am confused and unclear as to where to begin any help is appreciated
Answer by scott8148(6628) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
the question asks for Shannon's speed, so let that be x

(rate) * (time) = (distance)

[x (5/2)] + [(x + .8) (5/2)] = 14

5x + 2 = 14