Solving Distance Problems

The basic formula for solving distance problems is distance = rate x time or D=RT.

For example, if an automobile travels at 30 miles per hour for 2 hours, then the distance is D=RT
or 30 x 2=60 miles.

Distance problems usually involve two vehicles (i.e., automobiles, trains, bicycles, etc.) either
traveling in the same direction or in opposite directions, or one vehicle making a round trip. The
strategy for solving distance problems is:

1. Draw a diagram of the situation.

2. Set up a table as shown.

3. Fill in the information in the table.

4. Write an equation for the situation.

EXAMPLE: A person walked from his home to the football stadium at a rate of 3 miles per hour.
After the game, he rode the bus back the same way at a rate of 22 miles per hour. If the total time
he spent traveling was 2 hours, how far did he walk?

SOLUTION:

GOAL: You are being asked to find the distance the person walked from his home to the
stadium.
EXAMPLE: A freight train leaves Pittsburgh traveling east at 15 miles per hour. Four hours
later, an AMTRAK train leaves Pittsburgh traveling east at 35 miles per hour. How many miles
from Pittsburgh will the AMTRAK overtake the freight train?

SOLUTION:

GOAL: You are being asked the distance from Pittsburgh two trains travel before meeting.