Question 811728
faster train x mph
slower train x-8 mph

travelling towards 
so add up speeds
x+x-8=2x-8 mph

distance = 396 miles
time = 4.5 hours

d=rt
396=(2x-8)4.5

396=9x-36

9x=396+36
9x=432
x=48 speed of faster train is 48 mph
it takes 4.5 hours
so distance traveled when it meets = 4.5*48=216 miles