Bridge and man timings – find train length A train crosses a 150 m bridge in 15 s and a man (standing) in 9 s at uniform speed. What is the length of the train?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 225 m

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Two timings allow solving for both the train length and speed. The man is a point obstacle (distance = train length). The bridge timing includes both train and bridge lengths.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Bridge length = 150 m.
  • t_bridge = 15 s; t_man = 9 s.
  • Uniform speed.


Concept / Approach:
Let v be speed in m/s and L the train length. From man: L = v * 9. From bridge: L + 150 = v * 15. Solve the two linear equations for L.


Step-by-Step Solution:

From man: L = 9vFrom bridge: 9v + 150 = 15v ⇒ 6v = 150 ⇒ v = 25 m/sTherefore L = 9 * 25 = 225 m


Verification / Alternative check:
Bridge check: 225 + 150 = 375 m; at 25 m/s, time = 15 s. Man check: 225 m at 25 m/s is 9 s. Both match.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
200 m, 135 m, 90 m: None satisfies both timing equations simultaneously.


Common Pitfalls:
Mixing which timing corresponds to which distance; remember man → distance = L, bridge → distance = L + 150.


Final Answer:
225 m

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