Pursuing Car 1 - Math Central

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Question from Mark, a parent:

Car 1 is traveling down the road at 50mph and passes Car 2 is
sitting on the side of the road. Car 2 needs to catch Car 1 one half mile
down the road. How fast must Car 2 drive to catch Car 1 if Car 2
waits 10 seconds before pursuing Car 1?

Mark,

I presume that we are making the (unrealistic) assumption that Car 2 can accelerate to full speed instantly.

OK, now. We know how far Car 2 needs to travel: _______________

How many seconds after passing does Car 1 get to that point?_____

How many seconds after starting does Car 2 have to get there?_____

How fast does Car 2 have to go to go that distance in that time?

Good Hunting!
RD

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