Man on a Flatbed: Inertia Prediction

  • Thread starter littlesohi
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In summary, the conversation discusses a flatbed railcar moving at a constant velocity and a man dropping a baseball onto the railcar bed. The question is where the principle of inertia predicts the ball will land, with options given including slightly behind, directly below, or slightly in front of the drop point on the railcar. It is mentioned that the speed of the railcar needs to be known for an accurate prediction.
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littlesohi
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Homework Statement



A flatbed railcar is moving at a slow but constant velocity. A man stands in the railcar, facing sideways (perpendicular) to the motion of the railcar. The man holds a baseball at arm's length and drops it onto the railcar bed. Where does the principle of inertia predict that the ball will land?

A. slightly behind the drop point
B. directly below the drop point on the railcar
C. Need to know the speed of the railcar
D. slightly in front of the drop point on the railcar


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
so, what do you think inertia is about?
Do you think that the ball won't fall?
tell us what you're thinking!
 

1. How does inertia prediction work in a man on a flatbed scenario?

Inertia prediction is based on the principle of Newton's First Law of Motion, which states that an object in motion will stay in motion unless acted upon by an external force. In the case of a man on a flatbed, the man is in motion with the flatbed and will continue to move at the same speed and direction unless acted upon by an external force, such as friction or wind resistance.

2. What factors affect the accuracy of inertia prediction for a man on a flatbed?

The accuracy of inertia prediction for a man on a flatbed can be affected by several factors, including the speed of the flatbed, the weight of the man, and the surface of the flatbed. Other factors such as wind resistance and friction can also play a role in the accuracy of the prediction.

3. Can inertia prediction be used to determine the motion of a man on a flatbed in different scenarios?

Yes, inertia prediction can be used to determine the motion of a man on a flatbed in different scenarios as long as the external forces acting on the man and the flatbed remain constant. However, if there are changes in the external forces, the prediction may not be accurate.

4. How is inertia prediction useful in understanding the movement of objects on a flatbed?

Inertia prediction is useful in understanding the movement of objects on a flatbed because it helps to predict how the objects will move and how they will be affected by external forces. This can be helpful in determining the stability of the objects and ensuring their safe transportation.

5. Are there any limitations to inertia prediction for a man on a flatbed?

Yes, there are limitations to inertia prediction for a man on a flatbed. The prediction may not be accurate if there are changes in the external forces acting on the man, or if the man changes his position on the flatbed. Additionally, the prediction may not be applicable in scenarios where the flatbed is accelerating or decelerating at a significant rate.

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