Rugby Player Problem: Solve for Time to Tackle

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In summary, two rugby players are running towards each other from 37 m apart. One is accelerating from rest at 0.5m/s2 while the other is already moving at 3.1 m/s and maintains his speed. The question asks for the time it takes for them to tackle each other. To solve this, we can write out the equation for distance covered by each runner as a function of time, and the equation for separation as a function of those distances. When they collide, the value of separation will be 0, allowing us to solve for the time it takes for them to tackle each other.
  • #1
badsniper
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Homework Statement


two rugby players are running toward each other. They are 37 m apart. if one accelerates from rest at 0.5m/s2 and the other was already moving at 3.1 m/s and maintains his speed,

a) How long before they tackle each other?


This question is annoying me so much right now, I found 2 archived solutions to the problem, but they don't explain in enough detail, so I'm just re-posting it so that I may know how to solve it.
 
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  • #2
badsniper said:

Homework Statement


two rugby players are running toward each other. They are 37 m apart. if one accelerates from rest at 0.5m/s2 and the other was already moving at 3.1 m/s and maintains his speed,

a) How long before they tackle each other?This question is annoying me so much right now, I found 2 archived solutions to the problem, but they don't explain in enough detail, so I'm just re-posting it so that I may know how to solve it.
Write out the equation for distance covered by each runner as a function of time. Then write out the equation for separation as a function of those distances ie: s = 37 - (d1(t) + d2(t)). What is the value of s when they collide? Work out t from that.

AM
 
  • #3
Andrew Mason said:
Write out the equation for distance covered by each runner as a function of time. Then write out the equation for separation as a function of those distances ie: s = 37 - (d1(t) + d2(t)). What is the value of s when they collide? Work out t from that.

AM

Sorry, but I don't understand what you mean by "Function of time", or function of distances, I was attempting to solve it using the linear kinematics equations.
 

FAQ: Rugby Player Problem: Solve for Time to Tackle

What is the Rugby Player Problem and why is it important?

The Rugby Player Problem is a mathematical problem that models the situation of a rugby player trying to tackle an opponent. It is important because it can be used to study the dynamics and strategies of tackling in rugby, as well as to improve player performance and safety.

What are the variables involved in the Rugby Player Problem?

The variables involved in the Rugby Player Problem include the initial positions and velocities of the attacker and the defender, their masses, and the forces acting on them during the tackle.

How is the time to tackle calculated in the Rugby Player Problem?

The time to tackle is calculated by solving the equations of motion for the attacker and defender and finding the time at which their positions intersect, representing the moment of impact between them.

What factors can affect the time to tackle in the Rugby Player Problem?

The time to tackle can be affected by various factors such as the speed and direction of the attacker and defender, their relative sizes and strengths, and the type of tackle being performed (e.g. low or high tackle).

How can the Rugby Player Problem be applied in real-life situations?

The Rugby Player Problem can be applied in real-life situations to analyze and improve tackling techniques and strategies in rugby, as well as to develop safety protocols and equipment for players. It can also be used in other sports or activities that involve tackling or collision between two moving objects.

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