Intro kinematics problem - is this ok?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a kinematics problem involving a car and an SUV moving towards each other on a highway. The car travels at 80 km/h north, while the SUV moves at 70 km/h south, with a 20 km separation between them. The user questions whether it is correct to sum their displacements to equal 20 km and whether to add or subtract their velocities when factoring time. Clarification is provided that both distances contribute to the total separation, and it's acceptable to solve the problem without a sketch, despite previous feedback on formatting. The conversation emphasizes understanding the principles of uniform motion and displacement in relative motion scenarios.
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Homework Statement


On a North-South highway, a Car drives 80 km/h [N]. A SUV, that is north of the Car, is moving 70 km/h [South]. The car is to the south of the SUV. The two are separated by 20 km. Where are the two cars when they pass each other.

Homework Equations


Both are in uniform motion so V = d/t -> d = v*t

The Attempt at a Solution



dc + dsuv = 20 km <--- this is my question... this part okay?
vc*t + vsuv*t = 20 km
t*(vc + vsuv) = 20 km
t*(160 km/h) = 20 km
t = 20 km / 160 km/h
t = 1/8 h

Next
dc = vc*t
dc = 90 km/h* (1/8) h
dc = 90/8 km [N]

So, the two meet at a place 90/8 km to the north of where the car started the problem from
 
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You originally stated that the car's speed was 80 km/h. Was that a mistake? Is it really supposed to be 90?
 
Sorry, that's a typo when I subbed the speed for the car. It should be as stated, the 80 km/h.

Do you think it's okay that I set the sum of their displacements to 20 km?
Also, should I subtract their velocities (they're act in opposite directions) when common factoring the time, t?
 
You add, not subtract. Think like this: each car is covering a distance. Both distances contribute to make the 20 km total. You could instead write it as 2 equations, with one car covering distance x, and the other car distance is (20 - x)
 
Why is it OK to do this problem without a sketch?

Zz.
 
Hi ZapperZ,

I've drawn sketches on my notes, but can't draw in this box. Moreover, I've posted images of my solutions before and have been in "trouble" for not following the template.

Thanks for your "help" though ZapperZ - lol!
 
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