Two trains travel. Based on their leghths, mesure

In summary, the problem involves two trains traveling on parallel tracks with different lengths and speeds. Train A has a length of 1 km and is traveling at 50 m/s, while train B has a length of 0.5 km and accelerates at 3 m/s^2 up to a maximum speed of 60 m/s. The question asks at what point train B will pass train A, and how far train A will have traveled during that time. To solve this problem, it is helpful to draw a distance versus time graph for the two trains and determine key points such as when train B reaches its maximum speed and how far the front-end of train B will have traveled at that time.
  • #1
MissJewels
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Homework Statement


Two trains trqvel on Paralel tracks in the same direction. Train 'A' has a length of 1 km and traveling at 50 m / s. Train 'B' has a length of 0.5 km and starts at just the moment when the rear of the train 'A' passes at the front of the train 'B'. Train 'B' has an acceleration of 3 m / s ^ 2 and a maximum speed of 60 m / s.

a) At what instant does train B pass train A, that is to say at what point does the back of train 'B' pass the front of train 'A'?

b) How far did train 'A' travel during that time?


Homework Equations


I've got:
V= V0 + at
x= x0 +(0,5)t^2


The Attempt at a Solution


I converted the lengths from km to m.

Then, tried combining the equations, but i wind up with unknowns that i don't know what to do with.. Help me get started? Please!
 
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  • #2
You would help yourself greatly if you could draw a distance versus time graph for the two trains. At least this will help you visualize what is going on. Suggestion: have one curve represent the location of the back-end of train A vs time, and the other curve represent the location of the front-end of train B vs time. This way the 2 curves can both start at the origin. A couple intermediate things you should determine that will help with the graph: How long will it take for the train B to reach its maximum speed? And, at that time, how far will the front-end of train B have traveled?
 
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1. How do you measure the length of a train?

The length of a train is typically measured from the front of the locomotive to the end of the last car, including any attached cars or caboose.

2. Why is it important to measure the length of a train?

Measuring the length of a train is important for several reasons. It allows for proper spacing and signaling on the tracks, ensures that the train will fit through tunnels and bridges, and helps determine the number of passengers or amount of cargo that can be carried.

3. How do you calculate the distance between two trains traveling on the same track?

The distance between two trains traveling on the same track can be calculated by subtracting the length of the first train from the total distance between the two trains. This will give you the distance between the end of the first train and the beginning of the second train.

4. Can you measure the length of a train while it is in motion?

Yes, it is possible to measure the length of a train while it is in motion. This is typically done using sensors and cameras that can accurately measure the speed and length of the train as it passes by.

5. How does the length of a train affect its speed and stopping distance?

The length of a train can have a significant impact on its speed and stopping distance. Longer trains typically have a slower top speed and require more distance to come to a complete stop due to their increased weight and momentum.

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