Dynamics - velocity from polar coordinates

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the speed of Car B as observed from point A using polar coordinates. The observer records the speed |r(dot)[SIZE="1"]B/A|, which is determined to be 0.949v, where v is the constant speed of Car B. Key equations utilized include v = r(dot)*e[SIZE="1"]r + r*theta(dot)*e(sub theta) and trigonometric identities. The angles involved are 45 degrees from the origin to the car and 18.4 degrees between the line from the origin to B and line AB.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polar coordinates and their applications
  • Familiarity with vector notation and unit vectors e[SIZE="1"]r and e(sub theta)
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions and identities
  • Ability to apply kinematic equations in a polar context
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of polar coordinate transformations
  • Learn how to apply the law of cosines in polar coordinate problems
  • Explore advanced kinematics involving angular velocity and acceleration
  • Investigate the use of radar technology in measuring velocity
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on kinematics and polar coordinates, as well as educators looking for practical examples of applying mathematical concepts in real-world scenarios.

Reverend Lee
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Car B is driving straight toward the point O at a constant speed v. An observer, located at A, tracts the car with a radar gun. What is the speed |r(dot)B/A| that the observer at A records? --I've attached a crude version of the example picture. By the way, the angle of the line from the origin to the car is 45 degrees.
2. Homework Equations : v = r(dot)*er + r*theta(dot)*e(sub theta); also the trig identities
Because I'm not too particularly familiar with polar coordinates, I haven't managed to get very far. I found the angle between the x-axis and line AB was 63.4 degrees, the length rb/a is 0.224km, and the angle between the line from the origin to B and the line AB is 18.4 degrees. What I did after that was place line AB to the orgin, and extended er in AB's direction from B and e(sub theta) perpendictular from AB at B. I don't know how to go from there. The answer is provided as 0.949v. Am I on the right track, and if so, how do I apply the equation?
 

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I figured out the answer -- its the cosine of 18.4 degrees, but I'm still not entirely sure about how to get the answer, my approach was trial and error.
 

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