Question

On the trip from Detroit to Columbus, Ohio, Mrs. Smith drove an average speed of 60 mph. Returning, her average speed was 55 mph. If it took her 1 3 of an hour longer on the return trip, how far is it from Detroit to Columbus?

Answer 1

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Explanation:

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Answer 2

Let
D = distance between Detroit and Columbus
From Detroit to Columbus,
D = 60T1
where
T1 = time it took Mrs Smith to drive from Detroit to Columbia
From Columbia to Detroit
D = 55T2
where
T2 = time it took Mrs Smith to drive from Columbia to Detroit
Equating the 2 formulas for "D",
60T1 = 55T2
and since T2 = T1 + 0.33
60T1 = 55(T1 + 0.33)
Solve for T1 and substitute this calculated value in the equation D = 60T1 to determine the distance between Detroit and Columbus.
5T1=18.15
T1= 18.15/5=3.63
then
D = 60T1=60*(3.63)=217.8 m