A train travels 240 miles at a speed of 60 mph, then continues for another 180 miles at 90 mph. What is the average speed for the entire journey?

Fri, 01 May 2026 19:10:34 +0000

**A train travels 240 miles at a speed of 60 mph, then continues for another 180 miles at 90 mph. What is the average speed for the entire journey?** Ever wondered how far a train really travels when its speed changes mid-ride? This isn’t just a math puzzle—tracking a train’s journey across hundreds of miles reveals interesting insights about speed, time, and the rhythm of motion. For curious travelers, engineers, or anyone following transportation trends, understanding average speed offers a fresh perspective on efficiency in transit. With a distance of 240 miles at 60 mph followed by 180 miles at 90 mph, this journey becomes a clear example of how varying speeds shape overall performance. The real story behind this route lies in the difference between constant and variable speeds. When speed stays the same, average speed equals distance divided by total time. In this case, the train spends more time covering the first leg at 60 mph than the faster second stretch, making the slower section the determining factor for the overall pace. This dynamic raises curiosity: how does shifting gears mid-journey affect total journey time—and more importantly, what does this tell us about average speed calculations? **Why This Journey Is Gaining Attention in the US**