Final answer:
Matthew's average speed is calculated by dividing the distance he traveled (15.5 miles) by the time taken (1/4 hour), resulting in an average speed of 62 miles per hour, which corresponds to option B.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question concerns the calculation of average speed, which is a basic concept in Mathematics typically covered in Middle School or beginning High School physics. To find Matthew's average speed, we use the formula:
Average speed = Distance traveled / Time taken.
In this case, Matthew drove 15 and 1/2 miles in 1/4 hour. First, convert 15 and 1/2 miles to an improper fraction or a decimal for easier calculation, which is 31/2 miles or 15.5 miles. Now, divide the distance by the time:
15.5 miles / (1/4 hour) = 15.5 miles * 4 = 62 miles per hour.
Therefore, Matthew's average speed was 62 miles per hour, making option B the correct answer.