SOLUTION: Sam leaves on a long trip driving at a steady rate of 45mph. Allen leaves from the same location traveling the same distance 2 hours later. He drives at a steady rate of 55mph.

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Question 415742: Sam leaves on a long trip driving at a steady rate of 45mph. Allen leaves from the same location traveling the same distance 2 hours later. He drives at a steady rate of 55mph. How long after Allen leaves home will he catch up to Sam?
Answer by ewatrrr(24785) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!


Hi

Let x and ( x-2hr) represent the times that Sam and Allen traveled respectively

 Question states***  D = r*t  (distances being the same for both

 45mph*x = 55mph(x-2)

Solving for x

    110 = 10x

     11hr = x, time Sam traveled.  Allen traveled 9 hrs.



CHECKING our Answer***

45mph*11hr = 55mph*9hr = 495mi