Calculating Time for Car to Catch Up to Truck

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SUMMARY

The problem involves calculating the time it takes for a car traveling at 93 km/h to catch up to a truck moving at 81 km/h, starting 250 meters behind. The initial equations set up were correct, but the user initially miscalculated the time by not converting units properly. After converting 250 meters to 0.25 kilometers, the user correctly solved for time, resulting in approximately 20.83 seconds. The final answer confirms the importance of consistent unit usage in physics calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic kinematics equations
  • Familiarity with unit conversion (meters to kilometers)
  • Knowledge of algebraic manipulation
  • Basic principles of relative motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study kinematic equations in detail
  • Practice unit conversion techniques in physics problems
  • Explore relative motion concepts in different contexts
  • Learn about common pitfalls in physics problem-solving
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for high school physics students, educators teaching AP Physics 1, and anyone looking to improve their problem-solving skills in kinematics.

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Homework Statement


A car traveling 93 km/h is 250 m behind a truck traveling 81 km/h.
How long will it take the car to reach the truck (in seconds)?

Homework Equations


d=tv

The Attempt at a Solution


dc = 93t
dt = 81t
dc = dt + 250
93t = 81t + 250
12t = 250
t = 250/12
t = 20.83h = 75,000sec

The online homework website (I just started AP Physics 1) says that is the incorrect answer. Where did I go wrong? Do I need to use a different equation(s)?

Thank you in advance for helping.
 
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Oh I just realized maybe I need to change the km to m or vice versa... will try that and then post whether it works.
 
Okay, having converted 250m to 0.25km and redoing the calculation I got the correct answer.
 

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