Multiple choice

Train A, travelling at 42 kmph, overtook train B, traveling in the same direction, in 20 seconds. If train B had been traveling at twice its speed, then train A would have taken 45 seconds to overtake it. Find the length of train B, given that it is half the length of train A.

  1. 90.5

  2. 50

  3. 116.6

  4. 75.8

  5. None of these

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Let L_A, L_B be lengths, S_A, S_B be speeds. S_A = 42 kmph = 35/3 m/s. Case 1: (L_A + L_B) / (S_A - S_B) = 20. Case 2: (L_A + L_B) / (S_A - 2S_B) = 45. Given L_B = L_A/2. From equations: (3L/2) / (35/3 - S_B) = 20 and (3L/2) / (35/3 - 2S_B) = 45. Solving gives L_B = 50m, S_B = 14 m/s, L_A = 100m. Option A (90.5) is incorrect. Option C (116.6) doesn't satisfy the conditions.