SOLUTION: How do I set up this linear equation? When a crew rows with the current, it travels 16 miles in 2 hours. Against the current, the crew rows 8 miles in 2 hours. Let x be the crew's

Algebra ->  Coordinate Systems and Linear Equations  -> Linear Equations and Systems Word Problems -> SOLUTION: How do I set up this linear equation? When a crew rows with the current, it travels 16 miles in 2 hours. Against the current, the crew rows 8 miles in 2 hours. Let x be the crew's      Log On


   

Question 300674: How do I set up this linear equation?
When a crew rows with the current, it travels 16 miles in 2 hours. Against the current, the crew rows 8 miles in 2 hours. Let x be the crew's rowing rate in still water and let y be the rate of the current. Find the rate of rowing in still water and the rate of the current.
I am struggling with how to set this up. If you can help me with how you set up this equation- pls explain how you did it.
Thanks!
Answer by richwmiller(17219) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
I think using x and y is counter-intuitive.
r for crew rowing and c for current
d for distance
t for time
rate*time=distance
(r+c)*t=d
(r+c)*2=16
(r-c)*2=8
2r+2c=16
2r-2c=8
add
4r=24
r=6
crew rowing=6
(6+c)*2=16
6+c=8
c=2
current=2
check
(6-2)*2=8
4*2=8
8=8
ok