Gavin's anemometer measures the wind speed at 44.14 kilometers per hour. 4 times faster than the wind speed 5 hours ago. What was the wind speed 5 hours ago?

To find the wind speed 5 hours ago, we can set up the equation based on Gavin's current wind speed being 4 times faster than it was then. If we let \( x \) be the wind speed 5 hours ago, then we have: \( 4x = 44.14 \) kilometers per hour. To find \( x \), you divide both sides by 4: \( x = \frac{44.14}{4} = 11.035 \) kilometers per hour. So, the wind speed 5 hours ago was approximately 11.04 kilometers per hour. Now, here's a fun fact about anemometers: they are not a modern invention! The first recorded use of an anemometer dates back to the late 15th century when Leon Battista Alberti invented a simple device to measure wind speed. Fast forward to today, and we have a plethora of high-tech versions that are used in various fields, from meteorology to aviation! Speaking of real-world applications, knowing wind speeds can be critical in many scenarios. For example, farmers use this information to protect crops during high winds, while sailors rely on accurate measurements to navigate safely. Wind speed also influences weather forecasts, making it essential for planning outdoor activities and ensuring safety during storms!