The Cost of a Trip Between Charlton, Massachusetts and Lowell, Massachusetts
Introduction
Planning a trip from Charlton, Massachusetts to Lowell, Massachusetts? One of the factors that you need to consider is the cost of transportation. Gas prices fluctuate frequently, so let's analyze the different possible routes, taking into account the distance and the cost associated with each option. By comparing the routes, we can determine the most cost-effective way to travel between these two cities.
Route Options
Route 1: Via I-90 E and I-495 N
The first route takes us from Charlton to Lowell by following Interstate 90 East and then Interstate 495 North. This is the most direct route, covering a distance of approximately 56 miles. Let's calculate the cost based on the current gas price.
Gas Price Calculation
Assuming that the current gas price is $2.85 per gallon and our vehicle has an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, we can determine the total number of gallons needed for this route.
Total gallons required = Total distance ÷ Fuel efficiency
Total gallons required = 56 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon
Total gallons required = 2.24 gallons
To calculate the cost, we multiply the total gallons needed by the gas price.
Cost of gas = Total gallons required × Gas price
Cost of gas = 2.24 gallons × $2.85 per gallon
Cost of gas = $6.38
Route 2: Via MA-9 E and I-495 N
The second route takes us from Charlton to Lowell by following MA-9 East and then Interstate 495 North. This route is slightly longer, covering a distance of approximately 64 miles.
Gas Price Calculation
Using the same gas price and fuel efficiency, we can determine the cost of gas for this route.
Total gallons required = 64 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon
Total gallons required = 2.56 gallons
Cost of gas = 2.56 gallons × $2.85 per gallon
Cost of gas = $7.30
Route 3: Via I-90 E and I-290 E
The third route takes us from Charlton to Lowell by following Interstate 90 East and then Interstate 290 East. This route is similar in distance to Route 1, covering approximately 58 miles.
Gas Price Calculation
Calculating the cost of gas for this route:
Total gallons required = 58 miles ÷ 25 miles per gallon
Total gallons required = 2.32 gallons
Cost of gas = 2.32 gallons × $2.85 per gallon
Cost of gas = $6.61
Recommended Route
After analyzing the different routes and considering the cost of gas, it's clear that Route 1 via I-90 E and I-495 N is the most cost-effective option. With a total cost of $6.38, it saves approximately $0.92 compared to Route 2 and $0.23 compared to Route 3.
However, it is important to note that factors such as traffic conditions and personal preferences may influence your decision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, for a trip from Charlton, Massachusetts to Lowell, Massachusetts, taking Route 1 via I-90 E and I-495 N is the best option in terms of cost. This route covers a distance of 56 miles and would require approximately 2.24 gallons of gas, costing around $6.38 based on the current gas price of $2.85 per gallon. Remember to account for traffic conditions and any detours that may affect travel time. Have a safe trip!