On A Collision Course

Math Puzzles of the Month
On a Collision Course

In this puzzle we challenge you to figure out how close the two missiles below would be one minute before collision.

Two missiles are 41,620 km (25,860 mi) apart aimed directly at each other. One is traveling at 38,000 km/h (23,600 mph). The other is going 22,000 km/h (13,700 mph).

How far apart are they one minute before the collision? You should be able to figure this out without pencil, paper, or a calculator.

(Hint: We've given you some unnecessary information.)

After you've tried this for yourself, check our solution.