Curious: Car vs Plane - Who Gets There First?

In summary, the conversation discusses whether a car or a plane would arrive at a selected latitude or longitude first. The general consensus is that the car would arrive first due to its shorter distance to travel on a sphere. However, it is mentioned that the plane's airspeed and wind conditions can also play a role in determining which one arrives first.
  • #1
Hinozuki
4
0
Okay. Don't worry about 'where' or things in the way, and anything of the sort.

A car and a plane both going 100mph and the plane being 10miles up in the air. Which one gets the the selected latitude ( or longitude I forget which is up and down) first?

Wouldn't the car get there first? Because on a sphere the car being closer the the Earth would have a shorter distance to travel than the plane.

Just curious.
 
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  • #2
Exactly
 
  • #3
Yes but I imagine the effect would be essentially minute.
 
  • #4
If you're going by ground speed, the car will arrive first for the very reason that you mentioned... shorter arc. If the aeroplane is measuring airspeed, then it's up to the wind to decide.
 
  • #5
Actually, would that be true? If you go by ground speed, they are botyh covering the same amount of ground, aren't they?
 
  • #6
Oops... :redface:
 

Related to Curious: Car vs Plane - Who Gets There First?

1.

What is the purpose of the "Curious: Car vs Plane - Who Gets There First?" experiment?

The purpose of the experiment is to determine which mode of transportation, a car or a plane, is faster in getting from one point to another.

2.

What variables are being tested in the "Curious: Car vs Plane - Who Gets There First?" experiment?

The variables being tested include the mode of transportation (car or plane), the distance traveled, and the time it takes to reach the destination.

3.

How is data collected and analyzed in the "Curious: Car vs Plane - Who Gets There First?" experiment?

Data is collected by using a timer to record the time it takes for both the car and the plane to reach the destination. The data is then analyzed by comparing the times and determining which mode of transportation was faster.

4.

What factors may affect the results of the "Curious: Car vs Plane - Who Gets There First?" experiment?

Factors that may affect the results include traffic conditions for the car, weather conditions for the plane, and the distance and route chosen for the experiment.

5.

What is the significance of the "Curious: Car vs Plane - Who Gets There First?" experiment in the field of transportation?

The experiment can provide valuable insights into the speed and efficiency of different modes of transportation, and can aid in making informed decisions about which mode is best for a particular journey. It also highlights the importance of considering various factors that may affect travel time and choosing the most suitable mode of transportation for a given situation.

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