Finding Time, given velocity and acceleration

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a physics problem involving a bicyclist who accelerates to catch up with a friend traveling at a constant speed of 3.9 m/s after a 2-second delay. The key equation used is V = V0 + At, where V0 is the initial velocity, A is the acceleration (2.0 m/s²), and t is the time. To solve the problem, it is essential to equate the distances traveled by both the bicyclist and his friend, taking into account the 2-second head start of the friend.

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Homework Statement



A bicyclist is finishing his repair of a flat tire when a friend rides by with a constant speed of 3.9 m/s. Two seconds later the bicyclist hops on his bike and accelerates at 2.0 m/s^{2} until he catches his friend.

Homework Equations



V=V0+At

The Attempt at a Solution



Well I could put the numbers in the equation but I know its wrong anyways. Not sure how to get this problem going.
 
Last edited:
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You need distance formulas because the distance traveled is the same in both cases.
Don't forget to account for the 2 second delay. You might want to put t in one formula and t-2 in the other.
 

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