SOLUTION: I have a math problem and the answer but need help with the setup and solving it. Mike and Adam left a bus terminal at the same time and traveled in opposite directions. Mike's

Algebra ->  Customizable Word Problem Solvers  -> Travel -> SOLUTION: I have a math problem and the answer but need help with the setup and solving it. Mike and Adam left a bus terminal at the same time and traveled in opposite directions. Mike's       Log On

Ad: Over 600 Algebra Word Problems at edhelper.com


   



Question 480792: I have a math problem and the answer but need help with the setup and solving it.
Mike and Adam left a bus terminal at the same time and traveled in opposite directions. Mike's bus was in heavy traffic and had to travel 20mph slower than Adam's. After 3 hours their buses were 270 miles apart. How fast was each bus traveling.
Answer: Adam 55mph Mike 35mph

Answer by Tatiana_Stebko(1539) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Let x is the speed of Mike's bus, then %28x%2B20%29 is Adam's bus speed
After 3 hours Mike's bus was in 3xmiles from a bus terminal, Adam's bus was in 3%28x%2B20%29miles from a bus terminal
3x%2B3%28x%2B20%29=270
3x%2B3x%2B60=270
6x=270-60
6x=210
x=210%2F6
x=35mph Mike's bus speed
35%2B20=55 mph Adam's bus speed