Final answer:
To solve this problem, we can use the formula: Distance = Speed x Time. Using the given information and equations, we can solve for the boat's speed.
Step-by-step explanation:
To solve this problem, we can use the formula: Distance = Speed x Time. Let's assume the speed of the boat is x km/h. With the current, the boat travels at a speed of x + 4 km/h, and against the current, it travels at a speed of x - 4 km/h.
According to the information given, the boat travels 12 km downstream and 4 km upstream, taking a total of 2 hours. So we can set up the following equation: 12 / (x + 4) + 4 / (x - 4) = 2.
Simplifying and solving this equation will give us the value of x, which represents the boat's speed.
Learn more about Solving problems involving distance, speed, and time