Explain how to solve rate-of-wind and rate-of-current problems.

Answer 1

basically use the formula d=rt

distance = rate of speed times time

consider an example

usually they give you either the speed of the current or the wind speed and

also either time or distance

let w=wind speed = 5 mph, find p= speed of the plane in still wind

time downwind is 3 hours, upwind time= 9 hours. total distance one way is 45 miles

45 = rt = (p+5)(3)

45= rt = (p-5)(9)

(p+5)(3)= *(p-5)(9)

3p +15 = 9p-45

9p-3p = 45+15

6p = 60

p = 60/6 = 10 mph = the plane's speed in still wind

same problem shows up with boat speed in still water with current speed

it's the same as plane speed in still wind and wind speed

Answer 2