Solving for Particle A's Speed with Respect to Particle B

AI Thread Summary
To find Particle A's speed with respect to Particle B, perform a vector subtraction of their velocities. This involves calculating either A - B or B - A, as speed is the absolute value of the resulting vector. The velocities given are Particle A: (15i - 10j) and Particle B: (5i + 15j). Understanding this concept clarifies how to approach the problem. The discussion emphasizes the straightforward nature of the calculation needed.
bluetriangle
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Very simple question but I am confused... I am asked to find Particle A's speed with respect to Particle B. What does this mean?

I am given:
Particle A: (15i - 10j) or 18.03 m/s
Particle B: (5i + 15j) or 15.81 m/s

I just don't understand what I'm being asked to find and how to go about solving for it...
Thanks
 
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bluetriangle said:
Very simple question but I am confused... I am asked to find Particle A's speed with respect to Particle B. What does this mean?

I am given:
Particle A: (15i - 10j) or 18.03 m/s
Particle B: (5i + 15j) or 15.81 m/s

I just don't understand what I'm being asked to find and how to go about solving for it...
Thanks

Welcome to the PF.

To get the speed of one "with respect to the other", just do a vector subtraction of their two vector velocities. :-)
 
So if I'm trying to find Particle A in terms of B would I do A - B or B - A?
 
It doesn't matter. Speed is absolute value.
 
Oh that's true, silly me. Thankyou!
 
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