Ground Velocity: -269.6 km/h [N 5.6 E]

[anneku]

Homework Statement

In the homework questions, it says to "determine the ground velocity of this plane". Would that not be the velocity of the ground in respect to the plane? Why would it be the velocity of the plane in respect to the ground?

Relevant Equations

An aeroplane is travelling with an air velocity of 250km/h and heads due North. The air velocity relative to the ground is 32 km/h [35 N of E]. Determine the ground velocity of this plane.

The velocity of the plane relative to the ground is 269.6 km/h [N 5.6 E]. Shouldn't it be the velocity of the ground relative to the plane is - 269.6 km/h [N 5.6 E]

 

[Doc Al]

Generally "ground velocity" of something means the velocity of that something with respect to the ground. (That's what the pilot is most interested in if he wants to get where he wants to go!)