Question

Tom and Joe are racing towards each other in a game of "chicken." Each boy is riding in a plastic canoe. They are at the local YMCA pool and are starting at a distance of 100 feet apart. Tom is able to paddle at a speed of 4 feet per second. Joe is able to paddle at a speed of 6 feet per second. How long will it take for the boys to meet?

Answer 1

50 seconds

Explanation:

We are told in the question that the distance between them = 100ft

Tom is able to paddle at a speed of 4 feet per second. Joe is able to paddle at a speed of 6 feet per second.

The formula for Distance = Speed × Time.

Hence, the Algebraic equation is given as:

6ft/s × t = 4ft/s × t + 100

6t = 4t + 100

6t - 4t = 100

2t = 100

t = 100/2

t = 50 seconds

It will take 50 seconds for the boys to meet.