Two trains leave towns 855 miles apart at the same time and travel toward each other. One train travels 21 m/h faster than the other. If they meet in 5 hours, what is the rate of each train?

Question

Rate of the faster train mi/h? mi/h

Rate of the slower train mi/h?mi/h

Answer 1

Hello, Lannie,

Both trains travel a total 855 miles in 5 hours, when they meet. We can calculate an average speed (855 miles/5 hours) of 171 mph. Let's set X equal to the speed of the slower train, so that X + 21 is the faster train. Combined, they travel 855 miles in 5 hours.

The combined speed is X + X + 21 = 171 mph. That reduces to X = 75 mph. Train 2 would travel at 75 + 21, or 96 mph.

I hope this helps,

Bob

Answer 2