Maximum distance apart from both cars before Car B catches up with Car B

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the maximum distance between Car A and Car B before Car B catches up with Car A. Car A travels at a constant velocity of 20 meters per second, while Car B accelerates from 5 meters per second to 30 meters per second over 30 seconds, then maintains that speed. The key insight is that the maximum distance occurs at the transition points of the velocity-time graph, specifically at the moment Car B begins to accelerate and when it reaches its constant speed.

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  • Basic knowledge of kinematics equations
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  • Learn how to plot and interpret velocity-time graphs
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  • Investigate scenarios involving multiple objects in motion
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cyy91
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Homework Statement



Car A travel at uniform velocity at 20 metre per second from t=0s.
Car B starts with 5 metre per second during t=0s and accelerates uniformly to 30 metre per second in t=30s.It travels at constant velocity of 30 metre per second from there onwards

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


A velocity-time graph is plotted for this question.

But i just simply don't know wad to do regarding the maximum distance between both of the cars before Car B catches up with Car A.
I need urgent help and i mean it,thanks...
what can i do with the graph to solve this question?
 
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Hi cyy91! Welcome to PF! :smile:

The distance between the cars at any time is the horizontal distance between the two graphs at that value of t.

There are no curves … the graphs is only straight lines … and two straight lines either get continually further apart, or continually closer together … so the maximum distance must be at one of the "joins". :wink:
 
thx a lot...understood...
 

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