Relative velocity and distance between particles

In summary, the problem is to find the shortest distance between two particles, A and B, with given lengths and velocities. This can be done by finding the distance between the particles as a function of time, using the cosine rule, and then finding the minimum distance by taking the first derivative of the function and plugging in the time at which the distance is minimum.
  • #1
vickyiit
3
0

Homework Statement



Lengths L₁, L₂. Velocities V₁, V₂.

Homework Equations



Find the shortest distance between particle A and B.

The Attempt at a Solution



[I seriously don't have any clue how to start this question itself.
 

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  • #2
You sholud first find the distance between the two given objects as a function of time. I'm not sure if [itex]\theta[/itex] in your picture is [itex]90^{\circ}[/itex] angle or not, but cosine rule will definitely work.

Then you find the first derivative of that function in order to find the time at which the distance is minimum. When you got that time, it's easy to find the distance by plugging it back to the distance function.
 

FAQ: Relative velocity and distance between particles

What is relative velocity between particles?

Relative velocity between particles is the measure of the speed at which one particle moves relative to another particle. It takes into account the motion of both particles and their respective velocities.

How is relative velocity calculated?

Relative velocity is calculated by taking the difference between the velocities of the two particles. This can be done by subtracting the velocity of one particle from the velocity of the other.

What is the importance of understanding relative velocity?

Understanding relative velocity is important in many fields of science, such as physics and astronomy. It helps us understand the motion of objects in relation to each other and can be used to make predictions about their future positions.

Can relative velocity be negative?

Yes, relative velocity can be negative. This means that the two particles are moving in opposite directions, with one particle moving faster than the other.

How is the distance between particles affected by their relative velocity?

The distance between particles is directly affected by their relative velocity. If the relative velocity is high, the particles will cover a larger distance in a given time, while a lower relative velocity will result in a smaller distance between the particles.

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