Math Problem Statement

A man paddles a canoe in a long, straight section of a river. The canoe moves downstream with constant speed 4 m/s relative to the water. The river has a steady current of 1 m/s relative to the bank. The man's hat falls into the river. Eight minutes later, he notices that his hat is missing and immediately turns the canoe around, paddling upriver with the same constant speed of 4 m/s relative to the water. How long does it take the man to row back upriver to reclaim his hat?

Solution

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Relative Speed
Distance-Time Relationship

Formulas

Distance = Speed × Time
Effective Speed of the man paddling upstream = Man's speed relative to water - River current speed
Time = Distance / Speed

Theorems

Relative Motion

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10