SOLUTION: Two trains leave stations 476 miles apart at the same time and travel toward each other. One train travels at 80 miles per hour while the other travels at 90 miles per hour. How l

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Question 379060: Two trains leave stations 476 miles apart at the same time and travel toward each other. One train travels at 80 miles per hour while the other travels at 90 miles per hour. How long will it take for the two trains to meet?
Answer by ewatrrr(24785) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!


Hi,

D = r*t OR d/r = t  Question sets up an equality as to time each traveled.

stations 476 miles apart 

Let x and (476 - x) represent the respective distances the trains traveled 

x+%2F+90mph+=+%28476+-x%29%2F80mph

cross multiply to solve for x

80*x = 90(476-x)

80x = 90*476 - 90x

170x = 90*476

x = 90*476/170 

x = 252, distance traveled by train going 90mph

252mi/90mpn = 2.8 hr, time it takes for the two trains to meet

CHECKING our Answer

90*2.8hr + 80*2.8hr = 252mi + 224mi = 476mi