Calculating Relative Velocity for Approaching Boats

In summary, the problem involves a boat traveling due north at 5 m/s and another boat approaching from the south-west at a speed of 6 m/s. The question is asking for the actual velocity of the second boat, which can be solved using the relation Vrel = Vb - Va. A suggestion is made to redraw the triangle with an angle of 135 degrees to better visualize the solution.
  • #1
ozbii
4
0

Homework Statement


A boat is traveling due north at 5 m/s and a passenger on boat A sees another boat, boat b, approaching from south-west (45 degrees) at a speed of 6 m/s. What is boat B's actual velocity?

Homework Equations



Vrel = Vb - Va

The Attempt at a Solution


http://blob:https%3A//www.physicsforums.com/1c3c6810-6d14-4b51-8001-acb8be8f9167 http://blob:https%3A//www.physicsforums.com/0f6caecc-b8ad-4208-b8cb-c8fdd9c98d28
upload_2015-5-13_21-19-6.png
 

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  • #2
Is there a question in there somewhere? (I can't see the first two images you posted)
 
  • #3
ozbii said:

Homework Statement


A boat is traveling due north at 5 m/s and a passenger on boat A sees another boat, boat b, approaching from south-west (45 degrees) at a speed of 6 m/s. What is boat B's actual velocity?

Homework Equations



Vrel = Vb - Va

The Attempt at a Solution


http://blob:https%3A//www.physicsforums.com/1c3c6810-6d14-4b51-8001-acb8be8f9167 http://blob:https%3A//www.physicsforums.com/0f6caecc-b8ad-4208-b8cb-c8fdd9c98d28 View attachment 83441
Try redrawing your triangle a little differently so that the angle is 135 degrees from the horizontal. Imagine flipping your triangle upside down.
 
  • #4
Hope this helps
 

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Related to Calculating Relative Velocity for Approaching Boats

1. What is relative velocity?

Relative velocity is the velocity of an object in relation to another object or reference frame. It is the difference in velocity between the two objects or frames of reference.

2. How do you calculate relative velocity?

To calculate relative velocity, you need to subtract the velocity of one object from the velocity of the other object. This will give you the difference in velocity between the two objects.

3. What is the formula for relative velocity?

The formula for relative velocity is VAB = VB - VA, where VAB represents the relative velocity of object A with respect to object B, VB is the velocity of object B, and VA is the velocity of object A.

4. What is the significance of relative velocity in physics?

Relative velocity is important in physics because it helps us understand the motion of objects in relation to each other and their reference frames. It is a fundamental concept in the study of mechanics and is used in many real-world applications, such as navigation, transportation, and astronomy.

5. Can relative velocity be negative?

Yes, relative velocity can be negative. If the velocity of object A is greater than the velocity of object B, the relative velocity of A with respect to B will be negative. This indicates that the two objects are moving in opposite directions.

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