When and Where Do Two Cars Collide? A Velocity Analysis

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SUMMARY

In the discussion titled "When and Where Do Two Cars Collide? A Velocity Analysis," participants analyze a physics problem involving two cars starting from different positions and traveling at constant velocities. Car A, starting at x=2500m, moves at 25 m/s, while Car B, starting at x=-1000m, moves at 30 m/s. The solution requires setting the equations for their positions equal to each other to determine the time and location of their collision. The key equations involve velocity, displacement, and time, emphasizing the importance of initial positions in the calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically velocity and displacement
  • Familiarity with algebraic equations and solving for variables
  • Knowledge of graphing concepts, particularly relating time and position
  • Ability to interpret word problems in a mathematical context
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the equations of motion in physics, focusing on constant velocity scenarios
  • Learn how to set up and solve simultaneous equations
  • Explore graphing techniques for visualizing motion problems
  • Review the concept of relative motion and how it applies to collision problems
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students studying physics, particularly those tackling motion and collision problems, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to velocity and displacement in a practical context.

aziegler@uark
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Homework Statement


Two cars are at rest. Car A is at x=2500m, and Car B is at x=-1000m. At t=5s car A instantly travels at a constant velocity of 25 m/s in the positive x direction. At the same time car A takes off, car B travels at a constant velocity of 30 m/s, also in the positive x direction. When does car B collide with car A? Where does this occur?


Homework Equations


velocity=displacement/time; speed=distance traveled/time;


The Attempt at a Solution

I am having trouble with this problem 1. because I have never taken physics and 2. because its wording is confusing me a bit. I tried to make a graph of this problem, but I thought that time is usually the x-axis and position is usually the y-axis, but the problem says that the cars' positions are on the x-axis and the time I guess would be the y-axis. I think I need to set two equations equal to each other and solve for the variable time, but I'm having trouble finding a starting point. I have to stopping point so I can't figure out a ratio of the two either. Please help!
 
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You will need to set two equations equal to each other. When the cars collide their positions will be the same. You need an equation that relates the distance traveled to the speed they're traveling and the time. Also do not forget they do not start at the origin (or 0).
 
Thanks Kurdt! I will try this out and play with the numbers.
 

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