Question

Two planes, which are 2660 miles apart, fly toward each other. Their speeds differ by 65mph. If they pass each other in 4 hours, what is the speed of each?

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation

Since the two planes are 3400 miles apart, and their speed differs by 80 mph, we can apply the following relationship:

2660 / 4 = 665 mph

Assuming that x is the speed of the slower plane and y is the speed of the faster, we have:

(1) x + 65 = y

(2) x + y = 665 [Combined speed of both planes]

Plugging in (1) in (2):

x + (x + 65) = 665

Removing the parentheses:

x + x + 65 = 665

Adding like terms:

2x + 65 = 665

Subtracting -50 to both sides:

2x = 665 - 65

Subtracting numbers:

2x = 600

Dividing both sides by 2:

x = 300

Plugging in x=315 into (1):

300 + 65 = 365

In conclusion, the speed of both planes is:

Slower plane = 300 mph

Fastest plane = 365 mph