Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Walking = 28 km, Running = 72 km
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
The traveler uses two constant speeds over a fixed total time and distance. Let walking time be t hours, so running time is 10 − t. Form a single linear equation in t using distance = speed * time.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Total distance = 7t + 12(10 − t). Solve for t, then compute each distance separately: 7t for walking and 12(10 − t) for running.
Step-by-Step Solution:
7t + 12(10 − t) = 1007t + 120 − 12t = 100 ⇒ −5t = −20 ⇒ t = 4 hoursWalking distance = 7*4 = 28 kmRunning distance = 12*(10 − 4) = 72 km
Verification / Alternative check:
Average speed check: total distance/time = 100/10 = 10 km/h. Weighted speeds (7 for 4 h and 12 for 6 h) produce overall 10 km/h, consistent.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
They do not satisfy both the time and distance equations simultaneously.
Common Pitfalls:
Setting up two unknown distances without relating them through time, or assuming equal times at each speed.
Final Answer:
Walking = 28 km, Running = 72 km
Discussion & Comments