Final answer:
The most suitable answer is option B, as the calculations for time and distance align more accurately with the given values for passing a vehicle safely at 55 mph, considering the speed and distance required.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the time it takes to pass safely at 55 mph, various factors come into play such as the length of the pass and the time needed to complete it. Using the information provided and basic mathematical calculations, we can establish the correct answer to fill in the blanks. At 55 mph, you are traveling at about 80.67 feet per second (since 1 mile per hour is approximately 1.467 feet per second).
If we use option A as an example; passing in 10 seconds at 55 mph, you would cover 806.7 feet (10 seconds * 80.67 feet per second) which is more than 800 feet. This amount of time would typically require a significant gap for safety, so a 15-second gap seems reasonable. However, 10 seconds to pass would not be approximately 1/8 of a mile because 1/8 of a mile is 660 feet, and at 55 mph, you'd travel further than this distance in 10 seconds.
The correct answer appears to be Option B, as 12 seconds at 55 mph results in traveling approximately 968 feet, which is closer to the 900 feet mentioned, providing some margin of error or time for reaction and completion of the pass. A 20-second gap gives more leeway for safety, and about 1/4 of a mile is roughly equivalent to 1320 feet, which provides a substantial safety margin for passing and merging back into the lane.