SOLUTION: A boy can row a boat at a constant rate of 5 mi/hr in still water, as indicated in the figure. He rows upstream for 15 minutes and then rows downstream, returning to his starting p

Algebra ->  Coordinate Systems and Linear Equations  -> Linear Equations and Systems Word Problems -> SOLUTION: A boy can row a boat at a constant rate of 5 mi/hr in still water, as indicated in the figure. He rows upstream for 15 minutes and then rows downstream, returning to his starting p      Log On


   

Question 565329: A boy can row a boat at a constant rate of 5 mi/hr in still water, as indicated in the figure. He rows upstream for 15 minutes and then rows downstream, returning to his starting point in another 10 minutes. Find the rate of the current. Find the total distance traveled.
Answer by mananth(16946) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
boat rate in still water = 5mph
upstream rate = 5-x
downstream rate = 5+x
time upstream = 1/4 hour
time downstream = 1/6 hour
Distance up and down is the same
d=rt
(5-x)*1/4 = (5+x)*1/6
multiply the equation by 12
3(5-x)=2(5+x)
15-3x=10+2x
5x=5
x=1 mph speed of current
D= (5-1)*1/4 = 1 mile