Question

The equation $y+4x=100$ represents your distance y (in meters) from the finish line x seconds after you begin your leg of a relay race. The equation $y+3.8x=97$ represents your opponent's distance from the finish line. How far do you need to run until you catch up to your opponent?

Answer 1

3 metres

Explanation:

If y= distance (in meters) from the finish line

x= time in seconds after the beginning of the leg of relay race.

At x=0, when the race has not started,

From the runner's equation

y+4(0)=100

y=100 metres

Also, from his opponent's equation

y+3.8x=97

y+(3.8X0)=97

y=97

The distance needed by the runner to catch up to his opponent

= 100-97 =3 metres