Trains
Train problems are a key part of time, speed, and distance aptitude. These problems involve concepts like relative speed, length of trains, and crossing time. They are frequently asked in competitive exams.
Fundamental Principles
Speed
Distance covered per unit time (Speed = Distance / Time).
Relative Speed
Effective speed when two trains move (add for opposite direction, subtract for same direction).
Train Length
Distance covered when a train crosses a pole or platform.
Essential Formulation Tips
- Always convert speed into m/s for train problems.
- Use total length when two trains cross each other.
- For pole crossing, distance = length of train.
- For platform crossing, distance = train length + platform length.
Shortcut Execution Techniques
- Conversion: km/hr × 5/18 = m/s.
- Opposite direction → add speeds.
- Same direction → subtract speeds.
- Time = Distance / Speed.
Contextual Inquiries (FAQs)
Q: Why use meters and seconds in train problems?
A:
Q: What is the most important concept in train problems?
A:
Example Breakdown: Train Crossing a Pole
Basic train problem.Distance = length of train = 120 m.
Time = 6 sec.
Speed = 120 / 6 = 20 m/s.
Convert to km/hr → 20 × 18/5 = 72 km/hr.
Final Answer: 72 km/hr.
Example Breakdown: Train Crossing Platform
Most repeated exam question.Total distance = train + platform = 100 + 200 = 300 m.
Time = 15 sec.
Speed = 300 / 15 = 20 m/s.
Convert to km/hr → 20 × 18/5 = 72 km/hr.
Final Answer: 72 km/hr.
Example Breakdown: Two Trains Crossing
Important concept question.Convert speeds: 40 → 11.11 m/s, 60 → 16.67 m/s.
Relative speed = 11.11 + 16.67 = 27.78 m/s.
Total distance = 100 + 150 = 250 m.
Time = 250 / 27.78 ≈ 9 sec.
Final Answer: ~9 seconds.
Train Problems Practice Questions
Solve important train aptitude questions for banking, SSC, CMAT, and placement exams.
Q1. A train 180 m long crosses a pole in 9 sec. Find speed.
Q2. Two trains move in same direction at 50 km/hr and 40 km/hr. Find relative speed.
Q3. A 100 m train crosses a 100 m platform in 10 sec. Find speed (m/s).