Calculate Time Needed for Opposing Car to Catch Up at 60 MPH

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  • Thread starter Thread starter CamminBeast
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    Formula Racing
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the time required for a car traveling at 60 MPH to catch up to another vehicle moving in the opposite direction. The key variables include the speed of the first car (65 MPH) and the total distance of 0.5 miles (880 yards). To determine the time taken for the second car to catch up, one must apply the relative speed formula, which involves the speeds of both vehicles and the distance between them. Additional data, such as the speed of the pursuing car, is necessary for a complete calculation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of relative speed concepts
  • Basic knowledge of distance, speed, and time formulas
  • Familiarity with unit conversions (miles to yards)
  • Ability to perform algebraic calculations
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  • Research the relative speed formula in physics
  • Learn how to convert between miles and yards for distance calculations
  • Study examples of catch-up problems in motion physics
  • Explore how to set up equations for multi-vehicle scenarios
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This discussion is beneficial for students studying physics, automotive enthusiasts, and anyone interested in solving real-world motion problems involving multiple vehicles.

CamminBeast
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HELLO TO ALL... I WAS WONDERING IF ANYONE COULD HELP ME OUT WITH THE FORMULA FOR THIS EXAMPLE: For Instance, If I am driving 60 MPH in one direction and another car from the opposite direction pulls a U-turn to Follow Me... How long will it take for him to catch up to Me?

These are the variables I know: My Speed, My Distance from point A to B.

Can someone please help me. Thanks In Advance
 
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I think more data is needed for this problem in order for someone to chime in and assist me.

<---------------------------------------------> Total Distance 0.5 miles/880yards

<----------------------------------------------i Drive <- @Speed 65 MPH

A Car in this direction-----------------------> Must U-Turn to catch up <----------

WHAT FORMULA DO I USE TO FIGURE HOW LONG IT WILL TAKE HIM TO CATCH UP TO ME AND AT WHAT SPEED IS HE DRIVING in order to CATCH UP?
 

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