Kinematics in 1 dimension - 2 objects interlinked, find time

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on a kinematics problem involving two cars: one accelerating from rest with an acceleration of 5.5 m/s² and the other traveling at a constant velocity of 69.4 m/s. After 4.1 seconds, the first car reaches a velocity of 22.55 m/s and covers a distance of 284.54 meters. The main question is determining the time required for the accelerating car to catch up with the constant-speed car. A graphical representation of the position versus time for both vehicles is recommended as a strategy for solving the problem.

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A race driver has made a pit stop to refuel. After refueling, he starts from rest and leaves the pit area with an acceleration whose magnitude is 5.5 m/s^2; after 4.1 seconds he enters the main speedway. At the same instant, another car on the speedway and traveling at a constant velocity of 69.4 m/s overtakes and passes the entering car. The entering car maintains its acceleration. How much time is required for the entering car to catch up with the other car?

Homework Equations


I DO NOT understand how do those type of questions. I had a lot of difficulty with this question and could not come up with the right answer. Along with helping me with this question, are there any specific strategies to go about solving these type of questions??

The Attempt at a Solution


After refueling, car #1
Vi= 0m/s
a= 5.5 m/s^2
t= 4.1 s
vf= ? Vf= vi + at
Vf = 0 + (5.5)(4.1)
vf = 22.55 m/s

____
Other car, car #2
V= 69.4 m/s
t= 4.1 s

deltax = vt + 1/2at^2
deltax = (69.4)(4.1) + 0
deltax = 284.54 m

and from here... I'm completely stuck.
Help, please!
 
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It helps to draw a diagram or graph of what is going on. I would recommend a graph showing x vs t of both vehicles for starters.
 

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