How Do You Calculate the Average Acceleration of a Sailboat Changing Direction?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the average acceleration of a sailboat changing direction, first determine the initial and final velocity vectors: 18 m/s East and 16 m/s at 50 degrees North of East. The change in velocity must be calculated by finding the vector difference between the final and initial velocities. The average acceleration is then found by dividing this change in velocity by the time taken for the turn, which is 2.5 minutes. Clarification on the correct formula for average acceleration is needed, as the initial attempt was incorrect.
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Homework Statement


If a sailboat is heading East at 18 m/s and it makes a turn until it is heading 50oNof E at 16 m/s, and the turn takes 2.5 minutes, what is the average acceleration of the boat in m/s2


Homework Equations


None


The Attempt at a Solution


I drew the vectors of 16 m/s N and 18 m/s E. What do I do next?
 
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There is a relevant equation...what is the definition of average acceleration?
 
I think it's


aav = v / t
 
That's not right. Do you have a textbook or can you look it up online?
 

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Thread 'A cylinder connected to a hanging mass'

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