Answer:
speed of plane = 580 mph
wind speed = 20 mph
Step-by-step explanation:
distance = speed * time
A plane traveled 1500 miles with the wind in 2.5 hours
1500 = (p + w) * 2.5
1500 = 2.5p + 2.5w
1400 miles against the wind in the same amount of time.
1400 = (p - w) * 2.5
1400 = 2.5p - 2.5w
Add the two bolded equations
2900 = 5p
Divide both sides by 5
580 = p
speed of plane = 580 mph
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use either bolded equation to find the wind speed
1500 = 2.5p + 2.5w
substitute for p = 580
1500 = 2.5(580) + 2.5w
1500 = 1450 + 2.5w
Subtract 1450 fro mboth sides
50 = 2.5w
divide both sides by 2.5
20 = w
wind speed = 20 mph