Question 228498
2. Two runners are separated by 1/2 mile at the time they both stopped their run. The faster runner ran at a rate of 5 mph and the slower runner at a rate of 4 mph.  What distance did the faster runner cover?


Step 1.  distance= speed * time


Step 2.  Let t be the amount of time ran by by each runners.


Step 3.  Let 5t be the distance of the faster runner at 5 miles per hour (mph).


Step 4.  Let 4t be the distance of the slower runner at 4 mph.


Step 5.  Then 5t-4t=0.5  or t=1/2 hour since the runners are separated by 1/2 mile.


Step 6.  So 5t=2.5 miles and 4t=2 miles.


Step 7.  ANSWER:  The faster runner traveled a distance of 2.5 miles.


Hello,

You're welcome and I'm glad that I could help in some way.

Good luck in your studies!

Cheers,
Dr J

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