Question 158291
Two cars start off 236 miles apart and drive towards each other on the same road.  One is driving 8 mph slower than the other.  they meet after 2 hours.  What is the speed of each car?

We can use the formula D = rt and draw a chart.

.........rate.....time......distance

car1...(x - 8)......2..........236

car2.....(x)........2..........236


2x + 2(x - 8) = 236

2x + 2x - 16 = 236

4x = 236 + 16

4x = 252

x = 252/4

x = 63

One of the cars has a speed of 63 miles per hour.

The other car has a speed of 63 - 8 miles per hours or 55mph.

Is the clear?