Step 1: Understand the problem
We are asked to find a formula that represents the speed of the train (in km/hr) at time t minutes after the beginning of the observation period. The table shows a steady increase in speed, so we are looking for a linear relationship between speed and time.
Step 2: Identify starting point
At t = 0 minutes, speed = 40 km/hr.
So the formula must give 40 when t = 0.
Step 3: Identify the rate of increase
At t = 180 minutes, speed = 70 km/hr.
Thus, total increase = 70 – 40 = 30 km/hr.
Time taken for this increase = 180 minutes.
Rate of increase = 30 ÷ 180 = 1/6 km/hr per minute.
Step 4: Formulate the equation
Speed at time t = Initial speed + (Increase per minute × t)
= 40 + (t ÷ 6).
Step 5: Verification
- At t = 0 → Speed = 40 + 0 = 40 (matches table).
- At t = 180 → Speed = 40 + (180 ÷ 6) = 40 + 30 = 70 (matches table).
- At t = 90 → Speed = 40 + (90 ÷ 6) = 40 + 15 = 55 (matches table).
Step 6: Conclusion
This confirms that the linear formula correctly represents the speed values in the table.
Final Answer: The correct option is (D): 40 + \(\frac{t}{6}\)