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Problem-Solving and Data AnalysisVery hardTime for a train to clear a platform

Problem-Solving and Data Analysis practice question

A train 200 metres long passes a signal post completely in 8 seconds. Travelling at the same speed, how many seconds does it take to pass completely through a platform 600 metres long?

Answer: 32

Speed = 200 ÷ 8 = 25 m/s. To clear the platform the train must travel 600 + 200 = 800 m: 800 ÷ 25 = 32 s.

Common wrong answers

If you answered 8
8 is the time to pass the post.
If you answered 24
24 uses only the platform's length (600 ÷ 25).
If you answered 40
40 uses 1,000 m, adding the train's length twice.

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