A boat travels 20 miles upstream and then returns downstream in a total time of 4.5 hours. If the speed of the current is 3 miles per hour, find the speed of the boat in still water. The speed of the boat in still water ismiles per hour.
Answer & Analysis
Analysis
Question Analysis
This problem assesses the ability to solve rational equations in a real-world context involving rates.
Key Concept Explanation
The problem involves setting up a rational equation based on the given information about the boat's travel times and the speed of the current.
Step-by-step Solution
1. Let be the speed of the boat in still water. The speed upstream is and downstream is .
2. The time taken to travel upstream is and downstream is .
3. Set up the total time equation: .
4. Find a common denominator: .
5. Multiply each term by the common denominator: .
6. Simplify:
Click "Show Answer" to reveal the answer and analysis
Want More Practice Questions?
Access thousands of practice questions with detailed explanations on Scholardog.