The discussion revolves around calculating the average acceleration of a bird flying from position A to position B over a time interval of 8.5 seconds, with given velocities at both positions expressed as vectors. The problem involves understanding vector components and their implications in the context of physics.
There is active engagement with participants offering guidance on how to approach the vector subtraction and component analysis. Some participants express uncertainty about the simplicity of the expected answer, while others clarify the need to consider the directional components of the velocities. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored.
Participants note that the problem is part of a grade 12 physics course and that the question includes a diagram of the bird's flight path, which may influence the understanding of the velocities involved. There is mention of the initial confusion stemming from the representation of angles and directions in the context of vector components.
highc said:A bird takes 8.5s to fly from position A to Position B. Determine the birds average acceleration.
Velocity A = 4.4 m/s [31 Degrees S of E]
Velocity B = 7.8 m/s [25 Degrees N of E]
That's the definition except that you are forgetting that velocity is a vector .So the average acceleration is given byhighc said:Change in velocity/change in time = 0.4 m/s^2. I'm having a hard time believing that this is all that is expected as an answer, seems too simple. (This if for a grade 12 physics course). The question is accompanied by a diagram showing the birds curved flight path.
lightgrav already helped out a lot..highc said:I am totally lost on this one. I don't know how to even start to do a vector subtraction with this one. I think my confusion stems from the fact that the bird is flying slightly upward on a curved path. The other examples in the book are nothing like this one. I just started this course, getting started is always the hardest part. Hoping someone can help.
Watch out. For A the angle is given as being *south of east*. That affects how you calculate the x and y components. Do you see how?highc said:Thank for the help. If anybody is ambitious enough to work this one out, can you confirm if the correct answer is:
0.41 m/s^2 [17 Degrees N of E]
(I arrived at this using for B, v(X) = 7.8cos25, v(y) = 7.8sin 25. For A, v(x) = 4.4cos31, v(y) = 4.4sin31. Then, a(x) = (7.1-3.8)/8.5 = 0.39, and a(y) = (3.3-2.3)/8.5 = 0.12. Then I found the tangent, to arrive at 17 Degrees)