Abe and Beth both start from a common point and travel in different di...
Let's assume that Beth's average speed is x miles per hour. Then Abe's average speed would be 25% greater, which is (1 + 0.25)x = 1.25x miles per hour.
Let's also assume that Beth needs to cover a distance of d miles. Then Abe needs to cover 50% greater distance, which is (1 + 0.5)d = 1.5d miles.
To find the travel time, we can use the formula:
Time = Distance / Speed
For Beth:
Beth's travel time = d / x
For Abe:
Abe's travel time = 1.5d / (1.25x)
Now, let's calculate the ratio of Beth's travel time to Abe's travel time:
(Beth's travel time) / (Abe's travel time) = (d / x) / (1.5d / (1.25x))
= (d / x) * (1.25x / (1.5d))
= (1.25 / 1.5)
= 0.8333
To express this ratio as a percentage, we multiply it by 100:
0.8333 * 100 = 83.33%
Rounded to the nearest option, the closest percentage is 80%.
Therefore, the correct answer is B: 20%.