Finding Eastward Velocity of an Airplane

In summary, the eastward velocity of an airplane is calculated by dividing the distance traveled eastward by the time it took to travel that distance, using the average velocity formula. This velocity can be affected by factors such as wind speed and direction, air density, and the weight and size of the airplane. It differs from airspeed, which is the speed at which the airplane is moving relative to the air around it and is solely dependent on engine power and aerodynamics. The eastward velocity can be negative, meaning the airplane is moving in a westward direction. It does not directly affect flight time, but a higher velocity can result in a shorter flight time due to covering a greater distance. Other factors such as weather and air traffic can also
  • #1
zelda1850
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Homework Statement



an air plane flied with a velocity of 750 kilometers per hour, 30 degrees south of east. what is the magnitude of the eastward component of the planes velocity?

Homework Equations



im not sure which equation is correct

750 sin 30 degrees or 750 cos 30 degrees

The Attempt at a Solution



im not sure which one I am suppose to use
 
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  • #3
I would first clarify the question and its context. Is this a physics or a navigation problem? What is the purpose of finding the eastward velocity of the airplane? Is this a theoretical or a practical question? Once these details are clarified, I would suggest using trigonometric equations to solve the problem. Since we are given the angle and the total velocity, we can use the equation Vx = Vcosθ to find the eastward component of the velocity, where Vx is the eastward velocity, V is the total velocity, and θ is the angle between the total velocity and the eastward direction. Therefore, the magnitude of the eastward component of the plane's velocity would be 750*cos(30°) = 650 kilometers per hour.
 

1. How is the eastward velocity of an airplane calculated?

The eastward velocity of an airplane is calculated by dividing the distance traveled eastward by the time it took to travel that distance. This is known as the average velocity formula: velocity = distance/time.

2. What factors can affect the eastward velocity of an airplane?

The eastward velocity of an airplane can be affected by several factors, including wind speed and direction, air density, and the weight and size of the airplane. The airplane's engine power and thrust also play a significant role in determining its eastward velocity.

3. How is the eastward velocity of an airplane different from its airspeed?

The eastward velocity of an airplane refers to the speed at which the airplane is moving in an eastward direction. Airspeed, on the other hand, refers to the speed at which the airplane is moving relative to the air around it. The eastward velocity of an airplane can be affected by external factors, while airspeed is solely dependent on the airplane's engine power and aerodynamics.

4. Can the eastward velocity of an airplane be negative?

Yes, the eastward velocity of an airplane can be negative. This means that the airplane is moving in a westward direction. The velocity is considered negative when the airplane is traveling in the opposite direction of its designated eastward direction.

5. How does the eastward velocity of an airplane affect its flight time?

The eastward velocity of an airplane does not have a direct effect on its flight time. However, a higher eastward velocity can result in a shorter flight time due to the airplane covering a greater distance in a shorter amount of time. Weather conditions, air traffic, and other factors can also affect the overall flight time of an airplane.

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