Math Problem Statement
Pairs of markings a set distance apart are made on highways so that police can detect drivers exceeding the speed limit. Over a fixed distance, the speed R varies inversely with the time T. In one particular pair of markings, R is 57 mph when T is 8 seconds. Find the speed of a car that travels the given distance in 9 seconds.
Solution
The relationship between speed and time is given as an inverse variation, which can be expressed mathematically as:
where is a constant.
Step 1: Find the constant
From the given data, when and , substitute these values into the formula:
Step 2: Calculate the speed for
Using the relationship , substitute and seconds:
Solve for :
Final Answer:
The speed of the car is approximately 50.67 mph.
Would you like a detailed explanation or further examples?
Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:
- What would the speed be if the car took 10 seconds to cover the same distance?
- How does the graph of versus look for inverse variation?
- If the time is halved, what happens to the speed?
- What is the distance between the two markings based on this data?
- How can this method be implemented for speed enforcement in various weather conditions?
Tip: Remember, in inverse variation, if one variable increases, the other decreases proportionally.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Inverse Variation
Proportions
Algebra
Formulas
R * T = k
Theorems
Inverse Variation Theorem
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 8-10