Airplane flying in a crosswind problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the crosswind problem for an ultralight plane with an airspeed of 45 m/s pointed south and a 20 m/s wind from the southwest. Participants clarify that the airspeed is relative to the air, not the ground, which is crucial for accurate calculations. The x-component of the velocity with respect to the earth is derived using vector addition, while the y-component is calculated using trigonometric functions. The correct approach involves adjusting for the wind's influence to determine the plane's actual motion relative to the earth.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector addition in physics
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions (sine and cosine)
  • Familiarity with relative motion concepts
  • Basic principles of aerodynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector addition techniques in physics
  • Learn about relative motion and its applications in aviation
  • Explore trigonometric functions in detail, focusing on their use in vector calculations
  • Investigate the effects of wind on aircraft performance and navigation
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Aerospace engineering students, physics learners, pilots, and anyone interested in understanding the effects of wind on aircraft navigation and performance.

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Homework Statement



The nose of an ultralight plane is pointed south, and its airspeed indicator shows 45 m/s . The plane is in a 20 m/s wind blowing toward the southwest relative to the earth.

Find the x-component of the velocity with respect to the earth.
Find the y-component of the velocity with respect to the earth.
Find the magnitude of the plane's motion with respect to the earth.
Find the angle of the plane's motion with respect to the earth.

Homework Equations



x-component magnitude of a vector = (a)cos(\vartheta)
y-component magnitude of a vector = (a)sin(\vartheta)

The Attempt at a Solution



I mapped it all out and ended up with x and y components of -59.14 and -14.14 respectively, but this is wrong.

halp plox?
 
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halp plox?

Really?



Anyway, you realize the the airspeed indicator reading of 45 m/s is relative to the moving air, not the earth. Take that into consideration, please.
 

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