Calculating Speed of Kite String Release for 120ft Kite Flight

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the rate at which a kite string must be released when the kite is 120 feet high and moving horizontally at 10 feet per second, with the string length at 150 feet. The problem involves understanding the relationship between the vertical height of the kite, the horizontal distance it travels, and the length of the string. Participants clarify the definitions of "height" and "string length," emphasizing the need for a solid grasp of the geometric relationships involved in this scenario.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic geometry, specifically right triangles
  • Familiarity with related rates in calculus
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions and their applications
  • Ability to interpret physics problems involving motion and forces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study related rates in calculus, focusing on applications in physics
  • Learn about the Pythagorean theorem and its relevance to kite flight problems
  • Explore trigonometric functions, particularly sine and cosine, in relation to angles and distances
  • Practice solving similar problems involving motion and geometry
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or calculus courses, educators teaching related rates, and anyone interested in applying mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios like kite flying.

killykilly
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Homework Statement


A girl is flying a kite, which is at a height of 120 feet. The wind is carrying the kite horizontally away from the girl at a speed of 10 feet per second. How fast must the kite string be let out when the string is 150 feet long ?



I came from a non english speaking country. I can't understand question well.
 
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killykilly said:
I came from a non english speaking country. I can't understand question well.

Why not try to restate the problem in your own words? Then maybe we can see where your misunderstanding is.
 
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Is this problem really from a physics class? It looks like a calculus problem.
killykilly said:

Homework Statement


A girl is flying a kite, which is at a height of 120 feet. The wind is carrying the kite horizontally away from the girl at a speed of 10 feet per second. How fast must the kite string be let out when the string is 150 feet long ?
I came from a non english speaking country. I can't understand question well.
"Height" refers to the vertical distance that the kite is above the ground.

How long the string is, would mean the distance between the girl and the kite. Assume that the string forms a straight line between the girl and kite.
 

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