How Do You Calculate a Boat's Path Across a River with a Current?

In summary, the conversation is about calculating the speed of a boat crossing a river with a strong current and the time and distance it takes to reach the opposite bank. The first step is to draw a diagram and understand that it forms a right triangle. The boat's speed relative to the starting point can be calculated using the Pythagorean theorem, and the time taken can be found by dividing the distance by the relative speed. However, more information is needed to find the boat's speed relative to the current. It is suggested to show work and identify any mistakes in order to solve the problem correctly.
  • #1
eb22
1
0
1. A boat has a speed of 1.50 ms-1 in still water. It is used to cross a river 500 m wide along which there is a strong current of speed 0.900 ms-1. The boat is directed straight towards the opposite bank but the water current carries it downstream. Calculate:
(A) the boat's speed relative to the starting point
(B) the time taken to reach the bank on the other side
(C) the distance the boat is carried downstream from the point of departure at one bank to the point of arrival on the opposite bank



2. Literally don't know where to start. I feel like I have been staring at problems from my lectures and don't know how to relate this to any of them.



3. I drew out a diagram and can see that it makes a right triangle, but it feels like I need more information and I don't know how to find it. Also, I can't figure out how to the speed of the boat to the speed of the current.
 
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  • #2
show your work. don't just say you've done it, then maybe we can see where you are going wrong.
 

Related to How Do You Calculate a Boat's Path Across a River with a Current?

1. What is the boat and current problem?

The boat and current problem is a physics problem that involves calculating the speed and direction of a boat in relation to the current of a body of water. It is commonly used in navigation and can help determine the most efficient route for a boat to travel.

2. How does the current affect the boat's speed and direction?

The current can either aid or hinder the boat's speed and direction, depending on its direction and strength. If the current is moving in the same direction as the boat, it can increase the boat's speed. However, if the current is moving in the opposite direction, it can decrease the boat's speed and make it more difficult to steer.

3. How is the boat's speed and direction calculated in relation to the current?

The boat's speed and direction can be calculated using vector addition. This involves breaking down the boat's velocity into its individual components (speed and direction) and adding it to the velocity of the current. The resulting vector will be the boat's overall velocity in relation to the current.

4. What factors can affect the boat and current problem?

Several factors can influence the boat and current problem, including the strength and direction of the current, the boat's shape and size, and the boat's engine power. Wind can also play a role in affecting the boat's speed and direction.

5. How can the boat and current problem be solved?

The boat and current problem can be solved using mathematical equations and formulas, such as vector addition and trigonometry. It can also be solved practically by using navigation tools, such as a compass and GPS, to determine the boat's speed and direction in relation to the current.

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