Can a Plane Take Off from a Backward-Moving Runway?

[Eivind]

A plane is standing on a runway which is moving the opposite way of the plane.If the plane increases its speed, the runway wil too, but in the opposite direction of the plane.Will the plane manage to lift off?

This is what I think:No, the plane will not lift off.Thats because when the plane increases its speed, so the runway will, but in the opposite direction.Then the plane won't be able to move forward, which is neceserry for the plane if it is going to get enough air resistance.

What do you think?

 

[Integral]

This topic is well covered https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=105426&highlight=airplane and https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=105314&highlight=airplane and here

 

[quicknote]

I would agree with your assessment. In order for an airplane to take off, it needs to generate enough lift to overcome its weight. This is typically achieved by increasing the speed of the plane and creating enough air resistance under the wings. However, in this scenario, the runway is moving in the opposite direction, which would cancel out the forward movement of the plane and prevent it from generating enough lift to take off. In order for the plane to successfully lift off, the runway would need to be stationary or moving in the same direction as the plane.