Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: 7.5 km
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:When two travelers cover the same distance at different constant speeds, the difference in their arrival times equals the distance times the difference of reciprocals of their speeds.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:Let distance be D. Then arrival time difference: D/3 - D/3.75 = 0.5. Solve for D.
Step-by-Step Solution:
D/3 - D/3.75 = 0.5D*(1/3 - 1/3.75) = 0.51/3.75 = 0.266666..., difference = 1/3 - 0.266666... = 0.066666...D = 0.5 / 0.066666... = 7.5 kmVerification / Alternative check:Times: 7.5/3 = 2.5 h; 7.5/3.75 = 2 h; difference = 0.5 h as stated.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:They do not satisfy the exact time-difference equation for the given pair of speeds.
Common Pitfalls:Using average of speeds or average of times; the correct relation uses reciprocals of speeds for fixed distance.
Final Answer:7.5 km
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