Word problem

Question

The tatems are boating on the Chesapeake Bay. They travel at an average speed of 15 knots when traveling with the current and 12 knots when traveling against the current. Find the speed of the boat in still water and the speed of the current.

 

 

Show work so i can understand it please

Answer 1

let x = speed in still water, and y = speed of current

 

then x + y = 15, and x - y = 12

 

add the two equations to get 2x = 27

solving, x = 13.5

 

then 13.5 + y = 15; so y = 1.5

then 13.5 - y = 12

 

so, the speed in still water is 13.5 knots, and the speed of the current is 1.5 knots