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

In summary, ground velocity refers to the speed and direction of an object or person in relation to the Earth's surface. It is measured using instruments such as radar or GPS devices. The value "269.6 km/h" in the notation "Ground Velocity: -269.6 km/h [N 5.6 E]" indicates the magnitude or speed of the ground velocity in kilometers per hour, while "[N 5.6 E]" indicates the direction. Ground velocity can be negative, indicating movement in the opposite direction.
  • #1
anneku
4
0
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]
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
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!)
 
  • Like
Likes anneku

What is ground velocity?

Ground velocity is the speed and direction of an object's movement relative to the ground. It takes into account both the speed and direction of the object's motion.

What does a ground velocity of -269.6 km/h [N 5.6 E] mean?

A ground velocity of -269.6 km/h [N 5.6 E] means that the object is moving in a direction 5.6 degrees east of north at a speed of 269.6 km/h. The negative sign indicates that the direction of motion is towards the south.

What factors affect ground velocity?

Ground velocity can be affected by various factors, including the object's mass, the forces acting upon it (such as friction or air resistance), and the object's initial speed and direction.

How is ground velocity measured?

Ground velocity can be measured using instruments such as radar, GPS, or a speedometer. It can also be calculated using the object's position and time data.

What are some practical applications of understanding ground velocity?

Understanding ground velocity is important in many fields, such as aviation, navigation, and sports. It can also be useful in predicting the movement of weather systems and studying the motion of objects in space.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
25
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
867
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
577
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
16
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
821
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
1K
Back
Top