Final answer:
The average speed of the second car is calculated by subtracting the distance traveled by the first car from the total distance apart, and then dividing by the time elapsed. The second car has an average speed of 50 mph.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is asking for help to find the average speed of the second car when two cars, starting at the same point and traveling in opposite directions, end up being 520 miles apart after 4 hours. The first car travels at an average speed of 80 mph.
To solve this, we need to calculate the total distance covered by both cars in the time frame given. We already know the total distance apart is 520 miles.
The first car travels at 80 mph for 4 hours, covering 80 mph * 4 h = 320 miles. To find out how far the second car traveled, subtract the distance covered by the first car from the total distance apart: 520 miles - 320 miles = 200 miles.
Finally, to find the average speed of the second car, divide the distance traveled by the time. Thus, the second car's average speed is 200 miles / 4 h = 50 mph.