What is the distance between two ships and the correct solution to calculate it?

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In summary, the conversation discusses verifying the correctness of a proposed solution to a problem involving two ships, A and B, traveling at constant velocities. The proposed solution involves using vectors, equations, and trigonometric functions to calculate the distance between the ships after a certain amount of time has passed. The solution suggests that the velocity and direction of ship B is (27.56,15.91) km/h and the distance between the ships 40 minutes later is 12.14 km. The question is whether these equations and solution are correct.
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peripatein
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Hello,

I'd like to verify whether my solution to the problem as described below is indeed correct.

Ship A is traveling east at a constant velocity of 30km/h. It notices ship B 15 km away and 30° from the north. Ship B is traveling at a constant velocity. 20 minutes later ship A notices ship B 45° from the north, and 20 more minutes after that ship B is observed 60° from the north. The distance between ship A and B at that point in time ought to be calculated, including the velocity (magnitude and direction) of ship B.

Proposed solution:

Supposing ship A first spots ship B from O, (0,0):

1) (1/3Va)(OB + 1/3Vb) / |(1/3Va)||(OB + 1/3Vb)| = 1/SQRT(2)

2) (2/3Va)(OB + 2/3Vb) / |(2/3Va)||(OB + 2/3Vb)| = SQRT(3)/2

[Va, Vb, OB are vectors; 1/SQRT(2) = cos 45°; SQRT(3)/2 = cos 30°]

I got Vb = (27.56,15.91), |Vb| = 31.82 km/h, distance between ship A and B 40 minutes later = 12.14 km

Are these equations correct? Is their solution?
 
Physics news on Phys.org

1. What is the distance between ships?

The distance between ships is the measurement of the space between two vessels at a given point in time.

2. How is the distance between ships measured?

The distance between ships is typically measured using navigational tools such as radars, GPS systems, and sonar. These tools use various methods, such as triangulation and time-of-flight, to calculate the distance between two ships.

3. Why is it important to maintain a safe distance between ships?

Maintaining a safe distance between ships is crucial for safety at sea. It helps prevent collisions, allows for better maneuverability, and reduces the risk of damage to both vessels.

4. What factors can affect the distance between ships?

The distance between ships can be affected by factors such as weather conditions, visibility, speed and direction of the vessels, and the presence of other ships or obstacles in the area.

5. Are there regulations for maintaining a safe distance between ships?

Yes, there are international regulations, such as the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), that outline specific guidelines for maintaining a safe distance between ships. These regulations are enforced by maritime authorities and are essential for promoting safe navigation and preventing accidents at sea.

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