B How to calculate travel time as a function of distance

[Christofer Br]

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

 

[Dr.D]

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.

 

[hilbert2]

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 $x(t) = A\sin \omega t$.

 

[Dr.D]

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.

 

[Christofer Br]

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

 

[Dr.D]

My understanding is that PF is not about spoon feeding problem solutions. Good luck with your search.

 

[Mark44]

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.

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.