Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: 150 m
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
When margins versus a common competitor are known, convert them to speed ratios, then compare the two remaining competitors over a new distance by scaling with those ratios.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
For equal times, distance ∝ speed. When B finishes 1350 m, C covers (speed_C/speed_B) times that distance.
Step-by-Step Solution:
speed_B : speed_C = 9 : 8
C's distance when B finishes = 1350 * (8/9) = 1200 m
Lead of B over C = 1350 − 1200 = 150 m
Verification / Alternative check:
Consistent with the 10:9:8 baseline; margins scale linearly with course length for uniform speeds.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
125, 130, 140 m are not the exact scaled difference implied by the 9:8 speed ratio over 1350 m.
Common Pitfalls:
Using 100 m vs 200 m differences directly without forming ratios; forgetting to scale the margin for the new race length.
Final Answer:
150 m
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