Motion (Distance) Formula

Motion problems are based on the formula d = rt where d = distance, r = rate and t = time. When solving motion problems, a sketch is often helpful and a table can be used for organizing the information. Example: John and Philip who live 14 miles apart start at noon to walk toward each other at rates of 3 mph and 4 mph respectively. In how many hours will they meet? Solution:
Let x = time walked.

John Philip

r 3 4

t x x

d 3x 4x

3x + 4x = 14 7x = 14 x=2 They will meet in 2 hours. Example: In still water, Peters boat goes 4 times as fast as the current in the river. He takes a 15-mile trip up the river and returns in 4 hours. Find the rate of the current. Solution:
Let x = rate of the current.

down river up river

r 4x + x 4x - x

t 15 / 5x 15 / 3x

d 15 15

The rate of the current is 2 mph.