Ram and Shyam walk towards each other on a straight line with speeds of 10 km/h and 6 km/h. What is Ram’s speed relative to Shyam?

Introduction / Context:
Relative speed quantifies how fast one moving object approaches or recedes from another. When two bodies move in opposite directions along the same line, their relative speed is the sum of their individual speeds.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Speed of Ram = 10 km/h.
• Speed of Shyam = 6 km/h.
• They move directly towards each other (opposite directions).

Concept / Approach:
Relative speed (opposite directions) = u + v. This arises because, in a time interval, the distance between them shrinks by the amount each covers towards the other.

Step-by-Step Solution:
u = 10 km/h, v = 6 km/h.Relative speed = u + v = 10 + 6 = 16 km/h.

Verification / Alternative check:
If they start 16 km apart, at the computed relative speed they meet in 1 hour; Ram covers 10 km and Shyam 6 km, consistent with their speeds.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
6, 4, and 8 km/h are sums/differences not appropriate for opposite-direction motion; only 16 km/h matches the add rule.

Common Pitfalls:
Using the difference of speeds (which applies to same-direction chasing), not the sum used for opposite directions.

Final Answer:
16 km/h