If a train runs at 40 kmph, it reaches its destination late by 11 minutes but if it runs at 50 kmph, it is late by 5 minutes only. The correct time for the train to complete its journey is
Aptitude
Time and Distance
Difficulty: Medium
Choose an option
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A13 min
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B15 min
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C19 min
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D21 min
Answer
Correct Answer: 19 min
Explanation
### Concept & Time Equivalence
When distance is constant, $Speed \times Time$ is constant. Let the correct time be $t$ minutes. We equate the distance for both scenarios.
$$S_1 \times T_1 = S_2 \times T_2$$
### Step-by-Step Solution
* **Given:** Speeds are $40$ kmph and $50$ kmph.
* **Time Equivalence:** Let correct time be $t$ minutes.
* Case 1 time = $(t + 11)$ minutes.
* Case 2 time = $(t + 5)$ minutes.
* **Calculation:**
* $40 \times \frac{t + 11}{60} = 50 \times \frac{t + 5}{60}$
* $4(t + 11) = 5(t + 5)$
* $4t + 44 = 5t + 25$
* $t = 19$
### Exam Strategy & Shortcut
Difference in time = $11 - 5 = 6$ mins.
Distance $D = \frac{40 \times 50}{50 - 40} \times \frac{6}{60} = \frac{2000}{10} \times \frac{1}{10} = 20$ km.
Correct time = Time taken at 50 kmph - 5 mins.
Time at 50 kmph = $\frac{20}{50}$ hrs = $\frac{2}{5} \times 60 = 24$ mins.
Correct time = $24 - 5 = 19$ mins.
### Common Pitfall
Misinterpreting "late by 11 mins" and "late by 5 mins" and adding them. Since both are "late", you must subtract the delay from the actual time taken to find the correct time.
### Final Answer
Therefore, the correct answer is **19 min**.