Time & Distance Problem 4 Solution

Bob & Steve are both covering their respective distances (in this case the total distance to find is how far apart they are 1750 miles) individually with their given speeds. It's the same distance covered if they were going their added speeds, which is 500 mi/hr + 200 mi/hr = 700 mi/hr -- So, how long would it take to go 1750 miles at 700 mi/hour.. Distance = Rate X Time .... Time = Distance / Rate

So time = 1750 / 700 = 2.5 hours

Algebraically you would have

500x + 200x = 1750

700x = 1750
x = 1750/700
x = 2.5