A train 280 m long, running with a speed of 63 km/hr will pass a tree in:
Aptitude
Problems on Trains
Difficulty: Medium
Choose an option
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A15 sec
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B16 sec
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C18 sec
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D20 sec
Answer
Correct Answer: 16 sec
Explanation
### Concept & Formula
Crossing a tree is identical to crossing a pole; the tree has negligible length, meaning the train only needs to cover a distance equal to its own length.
$$ \text{Time} = \frac{\text{Distance}}{\text{Speed}} $$
### Step-by-Step Solution
* **Given:** Length of train = $280$ m, Speed = $63$ km/hr.
* **Convert Speed:** Change to m/s: $63 \times \frac{5}{18}$.
* Both $63$ and $18$ are divisible by $9$, so this becomes $7 \times \frac{5}{2} = \frac{35}{2} = 17.5$ m/s.
* **Calculate Time:** Time = $\frac{280}{17.5}$
* To avoid decimals, use the fraction: $\frac{280}{\frac{35}{2}} = 280 \times \frac{2}{35}$.
* Since $35 \times 8 = 280$, the calculation becomes $8 \times 2 = 16$ seconds.
### Exam Strategy & Shortcut
Always stick to fractions ($\frac{35}{2}$) rather than decimals ($17.5$) when dividing. It allows for quick cross-cancellation and mental math, bypassing the need for long division.
### Common Pitfall
A calculation error during the conversion to m/s or relying heavily on decimals instead of easier fractions.
### Final Answer
Therefore, the correct answer is **16 sec**.