Two trains of equal length travelling in opposite direction crosses a pole in…

2024

Two trains of equal length travelling in opposite direction crosses a pole in 18 sec and 12 sec respectively . In how much time two trains will cross each other ?

  1. A.

    15.5 sec

  2. B.

    8.8 sec

  3. C.

    14.4 sec

  4. D.

    20.2 sec

Attempted by 21 students.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Answer: 14.4 sec

Key idea: When two objects move in opposite directions, use the sum of their speeds as the relative speed.

  • Let the length of each train be x metres.

  • Speed of first train = x/18 m/s; speed of second train = x/12 m/s.

  • Relative speed (opposite directions) = x/18 + x/12 = 5x/36 m/s.

  • Distance to be covered for complete crossing = sum of lengths = 2x.

  • Time = distance ÷ relative speed = 2x ÷ (5x/36) = 2x × 36/(5x) = 72/5 = 14.4 seconds.

Therefore, the two trains will cross each other in 14.4 seconds.

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