SOLUTION: Solve the following word problem. Be sure to show the equation you use for the solution. Science and medicine. A bicyclist rode into the country for 5 h. In returning, her speed w

Algebra ->  Coordinate Systems and Linear Equations  -> Linear Equations and Systems Word Problems -> SOLUTION: Solve the following word problem. Be sure to show the equation you use for the solution. Science and medicine. A bicyclist rode into the country for 5 h. In returning, her speed w      Log On


   

Question 71435: Solve the following word problem. Be sure to show the equation you use for the solution.
Science and medicine. A bicyclist rode into the country for 5 h. In returning, her speed was 5 mi/h faster and the trip took 4 h. What was her speed each way?
Answer by Earlsdon(6294) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Using the formula: d = rt where: d = distance, r = rate (speed) and t = time taken for the trip:
For the outbound trip:
d = r(5hrs)
For the return trip:
d = (r+5)(4hrs) The return rate was 5 mph faster than the outbound trip.
Now since the distane d is the same in both cases, you can set the first equation equal to the second equation and solve for the rate (speed) r.
5r = 4(r+5) Simplify.
5r = 4r+20 Subtract 4r from both sides.
r = 20 mph for the outbound trip.
r = 20+5 = 25 mph for the return trip.