A train 100 m in length passes a milestone (point) in 10 s and another train of the same length coming from the opposite direction in 8 s. Find the speed of the second train (in km/h).

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 54 kmph

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This problem combines a point-crossing time to determine the first train’s speed and a full-train crossing time (opposite directions) to determine relative speed, from which the second train’s speed follows by subtraction.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Each train length = 100 m.
  • First train passes a point in 10 s ⇒ speed1 = 100/10 = 10 m/s.
  • Opposite-direction cross time for both trains together = 8 s.


Concept / Approach:
For opposite directions, relative speed = (sum of individual speeds). To fully cross, required distance = sum of lengths = 200 m. Hence v_rel = 200/8 = 25 m/s. Therefore speed2 = v_rel − speed1.



Step-by-Step Solution:

speed1 = 10 m/s = 36 km/h.v_rel = 200 / 8 = 25 m/s.speed2 = 25 − 10 = 15 m/s = 15 * 18/5 = 54 km/h.


Verification / Alternative check:
Check: 36 + 54 = 90 km/h; in m/s that is 25 m/s; 200/25 = 8 s, consistent.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
36 km/h is the first train; 48 and 60 km/h lead to wrong crossing times.



Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting to add lengths for full crossing or mixing up km/h and m/s conversions.



Final Answer:
54 kmph

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