How Far Can a Tourist Run Before a Bear Catches Up?

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SUMMARY

The problem involves calculating the maximum distance (d) a tourist can run before being caught by a bear. The tourist runs at a speed of 4.0 m/s, while the bear runs at 6.0 m/s and starts 26 meters behind the tourist. To determine the maximum value for d, one must calculate the time it takes for the bear to catch up to the tourist and then use that time to find the distance the tourist can cover before reaching the car.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic kinematics, specifically speed and distance calculations.
  • Familiarity with the equation v = d/t for solving motion problems.
  • Ability to set up and solve equations involving relative motion.
  • Knowledge of how to manipulate variables to isolate desired quantities.
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to apply relative velocity concepts in motion problems.
  • Study kinematic equations in detail to solve various motion scenarios.
  • Explore problem-solving strategies for physics word problems.
  • Practice similar problems involving two moving objects with different speeds.
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on kinematics, and anyone interested in solving motion-related problems involving relative speeds.

ayerski
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Homework Statement


A tourist being chased by an angry bear is running in a straight line toward his car at a speed of 4.0m/s. The car is a distance d away. The bear is 26 m behind the tourist and running at 6.0 m/s. The tourist reaches the car safely. What is the maximum value for d?


Homework Equations


v = d/t


The Attempt at a Solution


I've been trying to use multiple variables to solve but i just can't seem to figure out a strategy.
 
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To solve this question you need to work out how long the bear would take to catch up to the tourist, and then use this time and the tourists speed to figure out the distance between him and the car.

Hope that helps.

Ryan
 

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