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CalculusSuperchallengeAnalytical Applications of Differentiation

Analytical Applications of Differentiation · Superchallenge problem

A lifeguard sits on the beach 3030 m from a straight shoreline. A swimmer in trouble is 4040 m out from the shoreline, and the point of the shoreline nearest the swimmer is 7070 m (measured along the shoreline) from the point nearest the lifeguard. The lifeguard runs at 44 m/s on sand and swims at 33 m/s. Find the least possible time, in seconds, for the lifeguard to reach the swimmer.