Explanation:

- Calculate the relative speed of the two boats moving towards each other. Relative speed equals the sum of their speeds.

- Convert the speeds from km/hr to m/s: \(36 \, \text{km/hr} = 10 \, \text{m/s}\) and \(54 \, \text{km/hr} = 15 \, \text{m/s}\).

- The relative speed is \(10 \, \text{m/s} + 15 \, \text{m/s} = 25 \, \text{m/s}\).

- One second before collision, the distance between them will equal their relative speed in meters per second.

- Thus, the distance is 25 meters.

Correct Answer: Option:3, 25