Question

Hector is competing in a 42-mile bicycle race. He has already completed 18 miles of the race and is traveling at a constant speed of 12 miles per hour when Wanda starts the race. Wanda is traveling at a constant speed of 16 miles per hour.

Answer 1

Explanation:

Let x = the hours needed for Wanda to catch up to Hector.

Hector has already completed 18 miles. Hector travels at 12 miles per hour.

After x more hours, Hector will travel

18 + 12x miles

Wanda travels at 16 miles per hour. In x hours, she travels

16x miles

If Wanda catches up to Hector, then

16x = 18 + 12x

4x = 18

x = 4.5 hours

Answer: 4 hours, 30 minutes (or 4.5 hours)