How to Set Up Algebraic Expressions for Car Travel Problems?

AI Thread Summary
To set up algebraic expressions for the car travel problem, define the variables clearly: Car A travels at a constant speed of 50 mph, while Car B travels at speed V, stopping for time T after 100 miles. To determine how far Car B is ahead when it stops, use the formula for distance (D = V * T) to express the time taken by both cars. For questions about their positions and timing, apply the relationship between distance, speed, and time (V = D/T) to derive the necessary expressions. Clarifying the total distances and travel times for both cars will help in answering the specific questions posed.
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Homework Statement



Two cars start at the same time from the same place and travel along the same road. Car A has a constant speed of 50mph. Car B travels with the constant speed V for 100 miles, then stops to rest for a time, T, then travels again with constant speed V for another 100 miles. Assume V is greater than 50mph.

Homework Equations



I was trying to set up the equations but have trouble with it but here is what I have so far.
Car A= 50mph
Car B= Vmph + 100miles

The Attempt at a Solution



I got stuck at trying to come up with algebraic expressions.
 
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It is not clear to me what you are solving for. Do both cars travel the same distance?
 


The first thing they asked was to write an algebraic expressions as answers to the follwing questions.
1. How far is B ahead of A when B stops to rest?
2. Where is A when B starts up again
3. What time is it when A passes a marker 150 miles from the starting point?
4. suppose we were at teh 150 mile marker. how long would we have to wait between the passing of A and the passing of B?
5. Where is A when B arrives at a point 200 miles from its starting point.

I need to step up an algebraic expression in order to answer these questions and from the information they gave me don't know how to step up the formula. In class we used so far V=D/T
thank you
 
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