Helicopter in a Moving Train: Will it Crash or Stay in the Air?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the behavior of a remote-controlled helicopter inside a moving train. Participants conclude that the helicopter will remain suspended in the air relative to the train's interior due to the principles of Newton's First Law of Motion and the concept of relative motion. The analogy of a stationary train with a rapidly moving environment further illustrates that the helicopter's inertia will keep it from crashing into the walls. This understanding is reinforced by comparing the scenario to a person standing in an airplane during flight.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's First Law of Motion
  • Familiarity with concepts of relative motion
  • Basic knowledge of reference frames in physics
  • Experience with real-world applications of aerodynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of Newton's Laws in different reference frames
  • Explore the concept of inertia and its effects on moving objects
  • Study the principles of aerodynamics in enclosed environments
  • Investigate real-world applications of relative motion in transportation systems
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators explaining motion concepts, and anyone interested in the dynamics of moving systems and their effects on objects within them.

Qte
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Hi,

Can someone help me out on this one ...

A train is driving from one point to another at a constant speed.
In the gangway of this closed train we let a RC-helicopter take off from the ground.

What will happen with the helicopter, will he stay in the air near us or will he crash against the wall ?

Can you also explain why ?
 
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Oh come on. You know the answer to this.
 
Tell us what you think!
 
I think he will stay in the air.

Why ? Don't know ... because he isn't slowed down ?
First law of Newton ?
 
consider a similar situation:

A train is motionless, however it's surroundings are moving backwards (relative to the train) at 40000 mph. If an R/C helicopter was to lift off inside the stationary train, what would happen to it? Doesn't seem very likely that it would crash into anything now would it?

Just remember that all reference frames are relative
 
When someone gets up into the aisle on an airplane, do they fly to the back? If you want to say they don't cause their feet are planted, do you think that your feet can resist a 500mph push?
 
What happens to the AIR in the train?
 
It's like saying, "If I'm in an airplane. Will I be smashed against the tail if I'm in the middle and jump up?"
 

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