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

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the average acceleration of a sailboat that changes direction while altering its speed. The problem involves initial and final velocities, as well as the time taken for the turn.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to visualize the problem by drawing vectors representing the sailboat's initial and final velocities. Some participants question the definition of average acceleration and its calculation.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the concept of average acceleration, with some guidance offered regarding its definition. There is a lack of consensus on the correct formula, and multiple interpretations of the problem are being discussed.

Contextual Notes

There are no explicit equations provided by the original poster, and the discussion includes a suggestion to refer to external resources for clarification on average acceleration.

chroncile
Messages
34
Reaction score
0

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?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
7K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
6K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K