Calculating Time for Acceleration of Motorcycle Cop

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SUMMARY

The discussion revolves around calculating the acceleration of a motorcycle cop who starts pursuing a Ferrari 308 GTS after a delay of 2.00 seconds. The cop reaches a top speed of 211 km/h and catches the Ferrari 2.00 km away. The key equation for solving the problem is the kinematic equation: Δx = v0t + 0.5at². The absence of total time is highlighted as a challenge, but the hint suggests considering both vehicles' motion to derive the necessary time for calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations, specifically Δx = v0t + 0.5at²
  • Knowledge of basic physics concepts such as acceleration and velocity
  • Familiarity with unit conversions, particularly km/h to m/s
  • Ability to analyze motion involving multiple objects
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to convert km/h to m/s for accurate calculations
  • Study the principles of relative motion in physics
  • Explore advanced kinematic equations for varying acceleration scenarios
  • Practice solving problems involving two moving objects to enhance problem-solving skills
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding motion dynamics, particularly in scenarios involving acceleration and relative speed.

hahame
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Homework Statement



A motorcycle cop, parked at the side of a highway reading a magazine, is passed by a woman in a red Ferrari 308 GTS doing 176. km/h. After a few attempts to get his cycle started, the officer roars off 2.00 s later and catches the Ferrari at the state line 2.00 km away some time after attaining his top speed of 211. km/hr. What was his acceleration during the time he was accelerating?

Homework Equations


I thought total time should be provided to be able to solve this problem, but it is not.
So I got really stuck..

The Attempt at a Solution


If the total time is given, I would put 2000m as delta position(dx) and use the acceleration equation (v0t + 0.5at^2).

I would appreciate any help! Thanks!
 
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hahame said:

Homework Statement



A motorcycle cop, parked at the side of a highway reading a magazine, is passed by a woman in a red Ferrari 308 GTS doing 176. km/h. After a few attempts to get his cycle started, the officer roars off 2.00 s later and catches the Ferrari at the state line 2.00 km away some time after attaining his top speed of 211. km/hr. What was his acceleration during the time he was accelerating?

Homework Equations


I thought total time should be provided to be able to solve this problem, but it is not.
So I got really stuck..

The Attempt at a Solution


If the total time is given, I would put 2000m as delta position(dx) and use the acceleration equation (v0t + 0.5at^2).

I would appreciate any help! Thanks!

What's stopping you calculating the time? Hint: there are two vehicles involved.
 

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