High School How to calculate travel time as a function of distance

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating travel time as a function of distance using the drag equation, specifically F_drag = cross-section area * density * ballistic coefficient * 0.5 * v^2. Participants emphasize that solving this problem requires understanding the equation of motion and performing direct integration. The inverse function t(x) is highlighted as a method to determine travel time, though challenges arise with non-single valued trajectories, such as those of harmonic oscillators. A consensus is reached that without knowledge of integration, the solution remains unattainable.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the drag equation and its components
  • Basic knowledge of equations of motion
  • Familiarity with direct integration techniques
  • Concept of inverse functions in calculus
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of the drag equation in physics
  • Learn how to derive and solve equations of motion
  • Master direct integration techniques in calculus
  • Explore inverse functions and their applications in physics
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Students in physics, particularly those tackling problems involving motion and forces, as well as educators seeking to enhance their teaching of calculus and physics integration concepts.

Christofer Br
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I need help calculating travel time as a function of distance using drag equation: F_drag = crossection area * density * ballistic coefficient * 0.5 * v^2. Not posted in homework cause it's not, and I don't know how to solve integrals so I could not fill solution attempt box
 
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If drag is the only force acting, just write the equation of motion and integrate it. At least get the equation of motion before worrying about how to integrate.
 
If the trajectory of an object in 1D is ##x(t)##, then the travel time as function of position is just its inverse function ##t(x)##. In some cases this isn't single valued, though, as you can see in the case of a harmonic oscillator trajectory ##x(t) = A\sin \omega t##.
 
Christofer Br said:
I don't know how to solve integrals so I could not fill solution attempt box

This problem is solvable by direct integration, but if you do not know how to integrate, then the solution is simply beyond your capabilities. I do not think that there is any other way to deal with the problem, other than by integration.
 
Dr.D said:
This problem is solvable by direct integration, but if you do not know how to integrate, then the solution is simply beyond your capabilities. I do not think that there is any other way to deal with the problem, other than by integration.
I realized that from beginning, I am essentialy asking to be spoon fed a solution - certainly other people will stumble upon it too, I think it's overall a good contribution to the forum
 
My understanding is that PF is not about spoon feeding problem solutions. Good luck with your search.
 
Christofer Br said:
realised that from beginning, I am essentialy asking to be spoon fed a solution
That is absolutely not what we do here at Physics Forums.

Dr.D said:
This problem is solvable by direct integration, but if you do not know how to integrate, then the solution is simply beyond your capabilities.
I agree.
 

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