ACT Math · Ratios, rates, and percents

Two cars leave the same location at the same time, traveling in opposite directions. One travels at 50 mph and the other at 65 mph. After…

Two cars leave the same location at the same time, traveling in opposite directions. One travels at 50 mph and the other at 65 mph. After how many hours will they be 460 miles apart?

Answer and explanation

Answer: J: 4

When two objects move in opposite directions, the distance between them grows at the sum of their speeds: 50+65=11550+65=115 miles per hour. Time equals distance divided by rate: 460115=4\frac{460}{115}=4 hours, choice J. Check: the cars travel 200200 and 260260 miles, which sum to 460460. Choice F (33) gives 345345 miles. Choice G (3.53.5) gives 402.5402.5 miles. Choice H (4.54.5) gives 517.5517.5 miles. Only 44 hours gives exactly 460460 miles. Reread the question to confirm that it asks for time, not distance.

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