Solve Vector Problem: Hurricane Path & Distance from Grand Bahama

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a vector problem related to hurricane movement, specifically the path and distance from Grand Bahama Island. Initially, the hurricane travels at 41.0 km/h in a direction of 60.0 degrees north of west for 3 hours, followed by a shift to due north at a reduced speed of 25.0 km/h. To determine the total distance from Grand Bahama after 4.5 hours, participants emphasize the need to break down the movement into x and y components using trigonometric functions. This method allows for accurate calculation of the hurricane's position based on its velocity and direction changes.

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The eye of a hurricane passes over Grand Bahama Island. It is moving in a direction of 60.0 (degrees) north of west with a speed of 41.0 km/h. 3 hours later, the course of the hurricane suddenly shifts due north, and its speed slows to 25.0 km/h. How far from Grand Bahama is the hurricane 4.50 h after it passses over the island?

How do I begin to solve this problem? I can't seem to find examples in the book that show how to solve this problem.
 
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Initially, you have a direction, a velocity and a time. How far has been moved horizontally and vertically ?
Ditto after the hurricane shifts.
Add the x- and y-values together.
 
Trig

Break it into the x and y conponents using trig. For instance, If the storm moved up at a NNW direction for one hour at a speed of 5 miles an hour then you know that the angle is 45 degrees and the length of the hypotenuse is five miles. Elementry trig will give you the x and y.
 

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