Question

question 38
2.5 pts
tom left the mall and drove south. george left 2 hours later driving 36 mph faster to catch up with tom. after 3 hours, he caught up with tom. find toms average speed.
○ 36 mph
○ 72 mph
○ 54 mph
○ 90 mph

Explanation:

Step1: Define variables

Let $v$ = Tom's average speed (mph). George's speed = $v + 36$ mph.

Step2: Calculate total travel time

Tom drove for $2 + 3 = 5$ hours. George drove for 3 hours.

Step3: Set distance equality

When George catches Tom, their distances are equal. Distance = speed × time.
$$5v = 3(v + 36)$$

Step4: Solve for $v$

Expand right side: $5v = 3v + 108$
Subtract $3v$: $2v = 108$
Divide by 2: $v = \frac{108}{2} = 54$

Answer:

54 mph