Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: 30 km
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:This is a two-speed mixture problem. Let x be distance cycled at 8 km/h; the remaining (45 − x) km is on foot at 3 km/h. Total time is the sum of segment times.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:Time equation: x/8 + (45 − x)/3 = 8.75. Solve for x. Since distance and time are positive, the solution must lie between 0 and 45 km.
Step-by-Step Solution:
x/8 + (45 − x)/3 = 8.75.Multiply by 24: 3x + 8(45 − x) = 210 ⇒ 3x + 360 − 8x = 210.−5x = −150 ⇒ x = 30 km.Verification / Alternative check:Time = 30/8 + 15/3 = 3.75 + 5 = 8.75 h, matches total.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:15/20/25 km lead to total times not equal to 8.75 h.
Common Pitfalls:Mixing time/pace or converting 8 h 45 min incorrectly (8.75 h is exact).
Final Answer:30 km
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