- #1
parker21
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When you swim across a river does the time to reach the opposite shore depend on the rate of flow of the water? Defend your answer
Time needed to cross river - depends on flow of the water?
In summary, the time to reach the opposite shore while swimming across a river can be affected by several factors such as the rate of flow of the water, the width of the river, and the distance swam. The speed of the water flow can influence the speed of the swimmer, as the flow can either add or subtract from the swimmer's own speed. Other factors like the direction of the flow and the potential for turbulence can also affect the time it takes to reach the opposite shore. It is important to consider these factors when determining the time it will take to swim across a river.
- #2
Doc Al
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What do you think?
- #3
Bystander
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Couple hints: since it isn't stated in the problem, what do you want to assume about the width of the river; and, what do you want to assume for a relationship between the starting and ending points for your swim?
- #4
rcgldr
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The time is affected if the rate of flow has a component perpendicular to the path of the river, or if the river gets wider or narrower downstream, or if the rate of flow causes the water to get turbulent (probably other factors as well). You left out a lot of constraints in your original post.
- #5
andrevdh
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Will the speed of the water flow influence the speed of the swimmer (assuming that he always swim at the same speed) ?
- #6
robi
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yes, when you are traveling in the direction of flow your speed increases (as the speed of the flow is added to your own speed).similarily when you are going against the flow your speed reduces (as the speed of flow is restricting and is subtracted from your own speed).
- #7
J77
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...but that's not really across the river, is it?
Think about a flow down the river as you swim across it and, like said before, the width of the river and distance swam.
Think about a flow down the river as you swim across it and, like said before, the width of the river and distance swam.
- #8
Gokul43201
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Can we please require the OP present his/her thoughts before everyone else jumps in with their ideas?
- #9
J77
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Huh? http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/835/policexn6.gifGokul43201 said:
It looked like the OP had drawn a conclusion - which didn't really go along with the question posed.
Last edited by a moderator:
- #10
Doc Al
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All the OP did was post the question!J77 said:
As Gokul said, please resist the temptation to jump in prematurely.
- #11
J77
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Oops 
I thought the robi person above me was the OP
Sorry!
And sorry Gokul - I thought you were enforcing the law
I thought the robi person above me was the OP
Sorry!
And sorry Gokul - I thought you were enforcing the law
Related to Time needed to cross river - depends on flow of the water?
What factors affect the time needed to cross a river?
The primary factor that affects the time needed to cross a river is the flow of the water. Other factors that may affect the time include the width and depth of the river, the terrain and obstacles on either side of the river, and the skill and physical ability of the person crossing.
How does the flow of the water impact the time needed to cross a river?
The flow of the water refers to the speed at which the water is moving. The faster the flow, the longer it will take to cross the river. This is because the force of the water can make it difficult to move through and may require more time and effort to safely navigate.
Is there a specific speed of water flow that determines the time needed to cross a river?
There is no specific speed of water flow that determines the time needed to cross a river. The time will vary based on the individual's abilities and the specific conditions of the river. A fast-moving river may take longer to cross than a slower-moving river if there are additional obstacles or challenges present.
How can one determine the time needed to cross a river based on the flow of the water?
The time needed to cross a river based on the flow of the water can be estimated by considering the factors mentioned earlier, such as the width and depth of the river, terrain, and individual abilities. Additionally, one can observe the speed of the water and use that as a general guide for the time it may take to cross.
Are there any safety precautions to consider when crossing a river with a certain water flow?
Yes, there are several safety precautions to consider when crossing a river with a certain water flow. These may include wearing appropriate safety gear such as a life jacket, using a walking stick for stability, and having a plan in case of emergency. It is also important to carefully assess the water flow and conditions before attempting to cross.
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