(rate)(time)=Distance or RT=D. There for T =D/R. The time for both trips is the same so D1/R1=D2/R2. Let C =rate of current. We can let R1 = downstream which is 15mph for the boat+C for the current or 15+C. R2 is upstream so its rate is 15-C. The downstream distance, D1 is 12 miles, and the upstream distance D2 is 9miles. Substitute these values in the ratio above and solve for C. Leave answer in fraction form.