A train 240 m long passed a pole in 24 seconds. How long will it take to pass a platform 650 m long?
Aptitude
Problems on Trains
Difficulty: Medium
Choose an option
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A65 sec
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B89 sec
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C100 sec
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D150 sec
Answer
Correct Answer: 89 sec
Explanation
### Concept & Formula
When a train crosses a stationary pole, the distance covered is equal to its own length. This helps us find its speed. When crossing a platform, the total distance covered is the sum of the train's length and the platform's length.
$$ \text{Speed} = \frac{\text{Length of Train}}{\text{Time to cross pole}} $$
$$ \text{Time to cross platform} = \frac{\text{Length of Train} + \text{Length of Platform}}{\text{Speed}} $$
### Step-by-Step Solution
* **Find Speed:** The train covers $240$ m in $24$ seconds to cross the pole.
* Speed = $\frac{240}{24} = 10$ m/s.
* **Find Total Distance:** To cross the platform, distance = $240$ m (train) + $650$ m (platform) = $890$ m.
* **Calculate Time:** Time = $\frac{\text{Total Distance}}{\text{Speed}} = \frac{890}{10} = 89$ seconds.
### Exam Strategy & Shortcut
Observe the proportionality. The train covers $240$ m in $24$ seconds, meaning it takes exactly $1$ second for every $10$ meters. To cover a total distance of $890$ meters ($240 + 650$), it will take $890 / 10 = 89$ seconds.
### Common Pitfall
Calculating the time for the platform alone ($650 / 10 = 65$ seconds) without accounting for the train's own length that must also clear the platform.
### Final Answer
Therefore, the correct answer is **89 sec**.