Question

In a white water relay race, one kayak team averaged 26km/h downstream but only 6km/h upstream in the white water course. What was the rate of the kayak in still water? What was the rate of the current?(solve using linear systems )

Answer 1

let v be the speed of the kayak and x be the speed of the current
v+x=26
v-x=6

2x=20
x=10

v=16

Answer 2

Thanks its working expect where did the 20 come from?? @carl_gauss

Answer 3

I. v+x=26
II. v-x=6

Gaussian elimination: I-II

Answer 4

carl friedrich gauss

Answer 5

indeed xD

Answer 6

:)

Answer 7

Ok then... But then wouldn't the other variable be 14 ... 6-20... -14

Answer 8

@carl_gauss ??

Answer 9

no the speed of the boat is 16 and the current is 10
if the boat drives with the current it has a speed of 26 (16+10)
if the boat drives against the current it's speed is 6 (16-10)
if there is no current it has just a speed of 16.

i'll write more:

I. v+x=26
II. v-x=6

I-II=III: (v-v)+(x-(-x))=26-6
III: 0+2x=20 |/2
III: x=10

the twenty just is a interim result and not used for the speeds itself

Answer 10

Okay thanks !!!