One Dimensional Kinematics Problem

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SUMMARY

The problem involves a Ferrari traveling at a constant speed of 35 m/s and a police officer who accelerates from rest at 6.5 m/s², starting 2 seconds later. To determine how far the motorcycle (police officer) has traveled when it catches the Ferrari, the equations d = vt for the Ferrari and d = 1/2at² for the police officer are utilized. The correct approach involves setting the displacement equations equal to each other and solving for time, leading to a calculated distance of 507 meters for the motorcycle when it catches the Ferrari.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of one-dimensional kinematics
  • Familiarity with the equations of motion: d = vt and d = 1/2at²
  • Knowledge of solving quadratic equations
  • Ability to manipulate and equate displacement equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of kinematic equations in physics
  • Learn how to solve problems involving relative motion
  • Explore the concept of acceleration and its impact on displacement
  • Practice solving real-world problems using the equations of motion
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in mastering kinematics and solving motion-related problems in a one-dimensional context.

MozAngeles
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Homework Statement


How far has the motorcycle traveled, when it catches the ferarri?
A ferrari speeding at a constant 35m/s passes a police officer at rest. 2.0 s later, the officer accelerates in pursuit at 6.5 m/s^2. How far has the motorcycle traveled, when it catches the ferarri?
I know the d=vt for the ferarri and d=1/2at^2 for the police, but what is throwing me off is the 2.0 seconds later part. Help please!


Homework Equations


d=vt for the ferarri
d=1/2at2 for the police

The Attempt at a Solution


I set vt=1/2at2
solved for t and got t=2v/a=12.769 I thought I could just add the two seconds to it, but that is wrong..
 
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You're solving for the distance the motorcycle travelled, I think in this case time is only needed to find the car's velocity. You should have all the information needed to find displacement.

Vf^2 = Vi^2 + 2ad

solve for displacement.
 
But I'm not given a final velocity. The answer turns out to be 507m I just do not know how.. I know that I have to set two equations equal to each other though
 

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