The speeds of three cars are in the ratio 2 : 3 : 5. For the same distance, what is the ratio of their times taken?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 15 : 10 : 6

Explanation:

Introduction / Context:For equal distances, time is inversely proportional to speed. Given a speed ratio, the time ratio is the inverse of those numbers.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Speed ratio = 2 : 3 : 5.
  • All travel the same distance.

Concept / Approach:Time ∝ 1/speed, so time ratio = 1/2 : 1/3 : 1/5. Multiply by the LCM (30) to get whole numbers.

Step-by-Step Solution:

1/2 : 1/3 : 1/5 → multiply by 30.Times = 15 : 10 : 6.

Verification / Alternative check:Check intuition: the fastest car (5 parts) should have the smallest time (6 parts), which it does.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:They place larger time for faster cars or mismatch the inverse relationship entirely.

Common Pitfalls:Forgetting to invert ratios; accidentally copying the same 2:3:5 order for times.

Final Answer:15 : 10 : 6

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