Word problem: distance traveled

In summary: The reason why plugging $r$ into (1) and (2) gives different results is because in (1) we are using $r+c$ instead of just $r$, which changes the equation and leads to a different solution.
  • #1
NotaMathPerson
83
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Here' s my attempt

$r=$revolution taken by first
$r+c=$ revolutiin taken by 2nd

$d=a(r+c)$ distance covered by first (1)
$d=br$ distance covered by 2nd (2)

$br=a(r+c)$ solving for r $r=\frac{ac}{b-a}$ and plug into (2)

I get $a=\frac{abc}{b-a}$ this answers agrees with the key answer in the book.

But my question is why do I get different answer when I plug $r$ to eqn. (1)?

Thanks!
 

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  • #2
NotaMathPerson said:
Here' s my attempt

$r=$revolution taken by first
$r+c=$ revolutiin taken by 2nd

$d=a(r+c)$ distance covered by first (1)
$d=br$ distance covered by 2nd (2)

$br=a(r+c)$ solving for r $r=\frac{ac}{b-a}$ and plug into (2)

I get $a=\frac{abc}{b-a}$ this answers agrees with the key answer in the book.

You mean $d=\frac{abc}{b-a}$, don't you?
NotaMathPerson said:
But my question is why do I get different answer when I plug $r$ to eqn. (1)?

Plugging $r$ into (1) we get the following:
$$d=a(r+c) =a\left (\frac{ac}{b-a}+c\right )=a\left (\frac{ac+c(b-a)}{b-a}\right )=a\frac{ac+cb-ac}{b-a}=a\frac{bc}{b-a}=\frac{abc}{b-a}$$

So, we get the same result.
 

FAQ: Word problem: distance traveled

What is a word problem about distance traveled?

A word problem about distance traveled is a mathematical question that involves finding the distance an object or person has traveled given certain information such as speed, time, and direction.

What are the steps for solving a word problem about distance traveled?

The steps for solving a word problem about distance traveled are:

  1. Read the problem carefully and identify the given information.
  2. Choose a formula that relates distance, speed, and time, such as d = rt.
  3. Plug in the known values and solve for the unknown value (distance).
  4. Check your answer by plugging it back into the formula and making sure it makes sense in the context of the problem.

What is the formula for calculating distance traveled?

The formula for calculating distance traveled is:
d = rt
Where d is the distance, r is the rate or speed, and t is the time.

What unit of measurement is used for distance in word problems?

The unit of measurement used for distance in word problems can vary, but it is typically either miles or kilometers. Other units such as feet or meters may also be used depending on the context of the problem.

How can I check my answer for a word problem about distance traveled?

To check your answer for a word problem about distance traveled, you can:

  1. Plug your answer back into the original formula and make sure it works.
  2. Estimate the answer and see if it is a reasonable distance for the given information.
  3. Double-check your calculations to make sure there are no errors.

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