Question 1195351
.
Bella and Regina both leave the mall at the same time, but in opposite directions. 
If Regina travels 5 mph faster than Bella and after 3 hours they are 87 miles apart, 
how fast is each traveling?
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<pre>
Let r be the slower rate;  then the faster rate is (r+5) mph.


The total separating distance in 3 hours is  3r + 3*(r+5) miles,

and it is equal to 87 miles.  So your base equation is

    3r + 3*(r+5) = 87  miles.


Simplify and find r

    3r + 3r + 15 = 87

         6r      = 87 - 15 = 72

         r                 = 72/6 = 12 miles per hour.


<U>ANSWER</U>.  The Bella's rate is   12 mph.

         The Regina rate is  12 + 5 = 17 mph.


<U>CHECK</U>.  3*12 + 3*17 = 36 + 51 =  87  miles separating distance in 3 hours.   ! Correct !
</pre>

Solved.


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For simple Travel & Distance problems, &nbsp;see introductory lessons 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;- <A HREF=http://www.algebra.com/algebra/homework/word/travel/Travel-and-Distance-problems.lesson>Travel and Distance problems</A>  

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;- <A HREF=https://www.algebra.com/algebra/homework/word/travel/Travel-and-Distance-problems-for-two-bodies-moving-toward-each-other.lesson>Travel and Distance problems for two bodies moving in opposite directions</A> 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;- <A HREF=https://www.algebra.com/algebra/homework/word/travel/Typical-catching-up-Travel-and-Distance-problems.lesson>Travel and Distance problems for two bodies moving in the same direction (catching up)</A>

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