Airplane flying in a crosswind problem

In summary, the problem involves an ultralight plane with a nose pointed south and an airspeed indicator reading of 45 m/s. The plane is also in a 20 m/s wind blowing toward the southwest relative to the earth. The goal is to find the x and y components of the plane's velocity, its magnitude, and its angle with respect to the earth. Taking into consideration the fact that the airspeed indicator reading is relative to the moving air, the correct x and y components are -59.14 and -14.14 respectively.
  • #1
CaYn
5
0

Homework Statement



The nose of an ultralight plane is pointed south, and its airspeed indicator shows 45 m/s . The plane is in a 20 m/s wind blowing toward the southwest relative to the earth.

Find the x-component of the velocity with respect to the earth.
Find the y-component of the velocity with respect to the earth.
Find the magnitude of the plane's motion with respect to the earth.
Find the angle of the plane's motion with respect to the earth.

Homework Equations



x-component magnitude of a vector = (a)cos([itex]\vartheta[/itex])
y-component magnitude of a vector = (a)sin([itex]\vartheta[/itex])

The Attempt at a Solution



I mapped it all out and ended up with x and y components of -59.14 and -14.14 respectively, but this is wrong.

halp plox?
 
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  • #2
halp plox?

Really?



Anyway, you realize the the airspeed indicator reading of 45 m/s is relative to the moving air, not the earth. Take that into consideration, please.
 

Related to Airplane flying in a crosswind problem

1. How does a crosswind affect airplane flying?

A crosswind can cause the airplane to drift off course and make it more difficult for the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft. It can also create turbulence and affect the lift and drag of the airplane.

2. How do pilots compensate for crosswinds while flying?

Pilots use techniques such as crabbing and side-slipping to counteract the effects of a crosswind. These techniques involve adjusting the angle of the aircraft to maintain a straight track while landing or taking off.

3. What is the maximum crosswind that an airplane can safely handle?

The maximum crosswind that an airplane can safely handle depends on the type and size of the aircraft, as well as the skill of the pilot. Most commercial airplanes can safely handle crosswinds up to 35 knots, while smaller aircraft may have lower limits.

4. Can crosswinds cause an airplane to crash?

Crosswinds can make flying more challenging and increase the risk of accidents, but they rarely cause airplanes to crash. Pilots are trained to handle crosswinds, and airports have procedures in place to minimize the risks associated with crosswind landings and takeoffs.

5. How do airports prepare for crosswind conditions?

Airports have specialized equipment and procedures in place to monitor and measure crosswinds. They also have designated runways that are aligned with the prevailing winds to minimize the impact of crosswinds on aircraft operations. Additionally, pilots receive specific training on crosswind operations and are required to adhere to crosswind limits set by the airport and aircraft manufacturer.

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