Question 307439
Let x = rate of the plane in still air.
Let y = rate of the wind.


{{{Rate = (Distance)/(Time)}}}
Rate WITH the wind = {{{x+y=2400/4}}}
Rate AGAINST the wind = {{{x-y=2000/4}}}


x+y=600
x-y=500


Add the equations together:
2x=1100
x=550 mph = speed of the plane in still air.


Now, x+y=600, where x=550
550+y=600
y=50 mph = speed of the wind.


Dr. Robert J. Rapalje, Retired
Seminole State College of Florida