Train Dilemma: A train leaves Chicago at 9am....

[mameluke]

A train leaves Chicago for Indianapolis (185 miles) at 9:00 a.m. One hour later, a train leaves Indianapolis for Chicago. They meet at noon. If the second train had started at 9:00 a.m., and the first train at 10:30 a.m., they still would have met at noon. What is the speed of each train?

How in the world do you solve this problem. Please take into account I haven't cracked an algebra book in over 20 years.

Thanks

 

[tkhunny]

Here's what you need: Distance = Rate * Time

Rule #1 - Name Stuff

"What is the speed of each train?"

I = Speed of the Train FROM Indianapolis
C = Speed of the Train FROM Chicago

OK, now what? Hint: How far do they get in the allotted time?

 

[mameluke]

grrr. I feel like an idiot now. It's been way too long since I've had to do anything like that. I got it now. 30.8333333mph and 46.25mph respectively. Solve for one, then plug it into the other.

Bob

 

[tkhunny]

grrr. I feel like an idiot now.

I think you are forgetting to take into account this, "...I haven't cracked an algebra book in over 20 years."

No worries.

 

[Denis]

grrr. I feel like an idiot now. It's been way too long since I've had to do anything like that. I got it now. 30.8333333mph and 46.25mph respectively. Solve for one, then plug it into the other.
Bob

HEY...good job, Bob :idea:
And I know how you feel: I went back 6 years ago, after over 40 years...

This is a cutie I found; try it!

A(T1)......................................(T2)B

Two Things (T1 and T2) are positioned at ends of straight path AB.

Both leave at same time, T1 heading for B, T2 heading for A, at constant speeds.

After meeting, it took one of them 4 hours to reach destination,
while it took 1 hour for the other.

If the slower Thing was travelling at speed k, what was the speed of the faster Thing?