How Do You Solve the Relative Motion Problem Between Mary and Jane?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves two soccer players, Mary and Jane, running from the same point in different directions, with the goal of determining their distance apart after a certain time and when they are a specific distance apart. The subject area relates to relative motion and vector analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using trigonometry and the Law of Sines or Cosines to analyze the problem. There is uncertainty about the applicability of these laws in the context of the angles involved. The original poster expresses frustration with their attempts to set up the problem correctly.

Discussion Status

Some participants have suggested using velocity-time ratios and trigonometric relationships, while others are questioning the assumptions about the triangle formed by the players' paths. There is no clear consensus on the best approach, and multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored.

Contextual Notes

The original poster indicates difficulty in applying the Pythagorean Theorem and expresses confusion about the use of trigonometric laws in non-right triangles. There may be constraints related to the specific angles and distances involved in the problem.

wick85
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1. Two soccer players, Mary and Jane, begin running from nearly the same point at the same time. Mary runs in an easterly direction at 4.45 m/s, while Jane takes off in a direction 63.6o north of east at 5.12 m/s

How long is it before they are 24.3 m apart?

How far apart are they after 4.09 s?

I've tried setting up this equation so many times, but I'm getting no where. I know I cannot use the Pythagorean Theorem so what do I need to do?
 
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Think of the sides as velocity*time ratios. Then use trigonometry to find the third side's ratio. Use d=rt to find your answers.
 
Law of Sines or Cosines perhaps?
 
I thought you could only use those rules in a right triangle where the other two sides were 45 degrees. one of the sides of this right triangle is 63.6 degrees.

I know the problem should be easy, but it keeps fooling me
 

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