SOLUTION: Two runners leave from the same location traveling in opposite directions. The first runner is running at 8 mph and the second is running at 10 mph. How long have they been running

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Question 361965: Two runners leave from the same location traveling in opposite directions. The first runner is running at 8 mph and the second is running at 10 mph. How long have they been running when they are 36 miles apart?
Answer by ewatrrr(24785) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!


Hi

Note: d = r*t or t= d/r

Let x represent the distance the first runner travels, (36-x) will be the other's

each will have traveled the same amount of time

%28x%2F8%29+=+%28%2836-x%29%2F10%29

cross multiply to slove for x

10x = 8*36 - 8x

18x = 8*36

x = 16mi

t = d/r

t = 16/8 = 2 hrs

checking our answer

2hr*8mph + 2hr*10mph = 36mi apart