The expressions in the table above give

The expressions in the table above give the distance from Centerville to each of two trains t hours after 12:00 noon. At what time after 12:00 noon will the trains be equidistant from Centerville? 1:30, 3:30, 5:10, 8:50, 11:30

2 Explanations

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P P

Why set them equal to each other? I tried to subtract or add them from each other.

Oct 13, 2018 • Comment

Sam Kinsman

Hi there!

We know that both trains are the same distance from the town, so they both equal the same thing. In other words, let's say the distance that they are from the town is d. So they are both equal to d. And since d is the same for each equation, we know that we can set them equal to each other and solve for t.

You could also add or subtract them, like you suggested. (You would have to set them both equal to d first). However, if you do that, it will probably take a bit longer to get to the answer. So I'd suggest that you set them equal to each other instead :)

I hope this helps!
Sam

Oct 28, 2018 • Reply

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Chris Lele