DRT Word Problems

DRT Word Problems are also sometimes called uniform motion problems. They always involve something moving. Whatever is moving can be described by the formula

or

the distance something travels = the speed it travels * amount of time it travels

You probably have done problems using this formula before. In this class, we will build off of those earlier experiences by giving you situations in which two things are moving. Here is an example.

What is really helpful for setting these problems up is a box diagram. 

Now whenever we jump to start filling in the boxes. The problem is that many students get lost when they start this way. They end up with a bunch of boxes filled in, but no idea what the equation should be. My recommendation is to start be asking yourself how the two trips are related. This is where the equation always come from. What am I talking about here? Let's look at an example.

• Example 1: Rob and Sue Running (from above)

Now try a few on your own.

• Practice Problem 1:  
  

[here is the solution, don't peak until you've tried it.]

• Practice Problem 2:  

[here is the solution, don't peak until you've tried it.]

• Practice Problem 3:
  

   [here is the solution, don't peak until you've tried it.]