Question

Runner A is initially 5.7 km west of a flagpole and is running with a constant velocity of 8.8 km/h due east. Runner B is initially 4.2 km east of the flagpole and is running with a constant velocity of 7.6 km/h due west. How far are the runners from the flagpole when their paths cross? Answer in units of km.

Answer 1

Answer:

0.39 km west

Explanation:

The position of Runner A is:

x = -5.7 + 8.8 t

The position of Runner B is:

x = 4.2 − 7.6 t

When the positions are equal:

-5.7 + 8.8 t = 4.2 − 7.6 t

16.4 t = 9.9

t = 0.604

Plug into either equation to find the position at this time:

x = -5.7 + 8.8 (0.604)

x = -0.39

The runners are 0.39 km west of the flagpole when they meet.