A coyote chases a rabbit basic vector problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a coyote chasing a rabbit, focusing on calculating the average acceleration vector based on the coyote's movement in two different directions over a specified time interval. The subject area pertains to vector analysis and kinematics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of average acceleration components and the appropriate use of trigonometric functions to determine the angle of acceleration. There are questions about the correctness of the formula used and the quadrant in which the angle lies.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered guidance regarding the correct formula to use for calculating the angle, suggesting a need for clarification on the direction specified in the problem. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of using different trigonometric functions and the potential benefits of visual aids like diagrams.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of understanding the vector directions and the specific angle requested in the problem, indicating that a diagram could clarify the situation. There is also a repetition of questions about the validity of previous calculations.

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A coyote chasing a rabbit is moving 8.00 due east at one moment and 8.80 due south 3.80 later. Find the direction of the coyote’s average acceleration during that time (west of due south)?


i found Ax = -2.11 and Ay = -2.32. i used the theta = arctan(Ay/Ax) formula and got 47.7 but that isn't the right answer. am i using the wrong formula or am i in the wrong quadrant?
 
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kirby27 said:
A coyote chasing a rabbit is moving 8.00 due east at one moment and 8.80 due south 3.80 later. Find the direction of the coyote’s average acceleration during that time (west of due south)?i found Ax = -2.11 and Ay = -2.32. i used the theta = arctan(Ay/Ax) formula and got 47.7 but that isn't the right answer. am i using the wrong formula or am i in the wrong quadrant?

Actually you want arctan(Ax/Ay) since they asked for the angle West of South, not the direction South of West.

EDIT: A diagram would have helped.
 
can anyone else confirm this is true?
 
kirby27 said:
can anyone else confirm this is true?

I mean a diagram of the two vectors would have helped you see which angle you were after.
 

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