Two moving objects; 1D; constant

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a physics problem involving two moving objects, A and B, with initial conditions including a 4000 m head start for object A, velocities of 50 m/s and 55 m/s, and accelerations of 0.5 m/s² and 1.0 m/s², respectively. The equation used, r = r0 + vt - a(t²/2), was incorrectly applied, leading to an erroneous solution of 140.04 seconds. Participants emphasized the need to correctly interpret the equation and suggested adjusting the acceleration term to find the correct time when the positions of A and B are equal.

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Homework Statement


2 objects A and B.
A has a 4000 m. head start on x-axis heading to the right
Va = 50 m/s;
Vb = 55 m/s
aa = 0.5 m/s2
ab = 1.0 m/s2

need to know t in s when xa = xb

Homework Equations



r = r0+vt-a(t2/2)

The Attempt at a Solution


I set each up for xa,b in said equation and set them equal to each other.
I plugged and chugged to a quadratic equation and ended up with a horrible answer of 140.04 seconds which makes no sense and then the other answer was negative
 
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burton95 said:

Homework Statement


Homework Equations



r = r0+vt-a(t2/2)

I don't think that equation's relevant! (It represents the height of something tossed straight up at initial height r0 with initial velocity v if a = g = 9.81 m/s^2.)

Try to change the sign of the at^2/2 term?
 
Yeah so close...but yet so far. Thanks
 

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