Max Boat Speed w/ 2 Engines: Proportional to v^2 Resistive Force

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem concerning the maximum speed of a boat with two engines, where the resistive force is proportional to the square of the speed (v^2). The original poster expresses uncertainty about the mathematical complexity involved and seeks assistance in understanding the relationship between engine force and resistive force.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to balance forces and the implications of using two engines. There is mention of the difficulty in deriving the equation of motion due to the non-linear nature of the resistive force. Questions arise about the relationship between engine output and maximum speed.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance is provided regarding the balance of forces and the implications of using two engines, though no consensus has been reached on a specific approach or solution.

Contextual Notes

The original poster indicates a lack of confidence in their mathematical skills, which may affect their ability to engage with the problem fully. There is also a reference to the complexity of the equations involved, suggesting potential constraints in the discussion.

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Here is a question that I came across while doing my problem set questions:

A boat experiences a resistive force that is proportional to v^2. If the maximum speed of a boat is V when one engine is at full throttle, what would be the maximum speed if two engines were used?

I assume this so-called resistive force is like air resistance, but when I searched up the formulas, they're absolutely long and I will never be able to solve those with my current math skills.

The way I tried to see this problem is that if it is related to energy or something, can anyone help me here?
 
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You need to balance forces. Finding the equation of motion is very difficult because the v^2 term makes the equation of motion a non linear ODE.
 
The maximum speed implies forces are balanced , with the boat moving at constant velocity, that is, the force delivered by the engine equals the resistive force, kv2. Two engines can deliver twice the force. What does this imply about the maximum speed when 2 engines are used? You would need a good knowledge of calculus to find the equation of motion for the speed at any time t, but you don't need any advanced math to solve for the maximum speed.
 
Edit: nvm, didn't read the post above.
 

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