use system of equations to solve

Question

two cyclists start at the same point and travel in opposite directions. one travels 3 mph faster than the other. in 4 hours they are 108 mph apart. find how fast each is traveling

Answer 1

Formula for distance:

d = speed * time

 

The total distance traveled by the cyclists is 108 miles

Speed of one cyclist = x

Speed of other cyclist = x + 3

 

Total time = 4

4x + 4(x + 3) = 108

8x + 12 = 108

8x = 96

 

x = 12 mph (speed of slower cyclist)

x + 3 = 15 (speed of faster cyclist)