Deceleration of Train to Avoid Collision

In summary, the engineer of a passenger train traveling at 25.0 m/s needs to apply a deceleration of 0.25 m/s^2 in order to avoid collision with a freight train traveling at 15.0 m/s in the same direction. This can be calculated using the relative velocity between the two trains of 10 m/s and a distance of 200 m.
  • #1
egrr10
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0

Homework Statement




The engineer of a passenger train traveling at 25.0 m/s sights a freight train whose caboose is 200 m ahead on the same track. The freight train is traveling at 15.0 m/s in the same direction as the passenger train. The engineer of the passenger train immediately applies the brakes, causing a constant acceleration of 0.100 m/s^2, while the freight train continues with constant speed. Take x=0 at the location of the front of the passenger train when the engineer applies the brakes. Find the deceleration of the passenger needed in order to avoid collision.


Homework Equations




Vx^2=Vox^2 + 2ax(x-xo)

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm using V of the freight train as the final and the V of the passenger as the initial and 200m as the distance.
Rearranging the equation,
(15^2-25^2)/(200*2)=-1m/s^2

Or do I use the relative velocity between passenger train and freight train 10m/s (25-15) as the initial and 0m/s (coming to a complete stop) as the final.
(0^2-10^2)/(200*2)=-0.25m/s^2
 
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  • #2
The first one cannot be true as the passenger train has more than 200m to slow down. It is possible to fix it, but using the second approach is much easier.
 

Related to Deceleration of Train to Avoid Collision

1. How does deceleration help a train avoid collisions?

Deceleration refers to the decrease in speed of an object. In the case of a train, deceleration helps avoid collisions by reducing the train's speed, giving it more time to stop or change direction to avoid a potential collision.

2. What factors affect the deceleration of a train?

The deceleration of a train can be affected by various factors, such as its mass, velocity, and braking system. The condition of the tracks and weather conditions can also play a role in the train's deceleration.

3. How is the deceleration rate of a train calculated?

The deceleration rate of a train is calculated by dividing the change in velocity by the time it takes for the train to slow down. This can be expressed as a negative acceleration (deceleration) in meters per second squared (m/s²).

4. Can the deceleration rate of a train be controlled?

Yes, the deceleration rate of a train can be controlled by the train's braking system. Depending on the type of train, the braking system can be controlled manually or automatically to adjust the deceleration rate and help avoid collisions.

5. What is the ideal deceleration rate for a train to avoid collisions?

The ideal deceleration rate for a train to avoid collisions depends on various factors, such as the train's speed, weight, and the distance to the potential collision. However, it is generally recommended to maintain a deceleration rate that will allow the train to stop safely without causing discomfort to passengers.

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