Solving a Simple Kinematics Problem: When Will Three Turtles Collide?

In summary, the problem involves three turtles moving towards each other from the vertices of an equilateral triangle with a constant velocity v. The goal is to determine when they will collide. The suggested solution is to calculate the change of area of the triangle as a function of time and solve for t when the area is equal to zero. However, it is important to note that the turtles may not necessarily stay on the triangle path.
  • #1
Leotav
4
0

Homework Statement


So the problem says that three turtles starts to move each from a vertice of a equilateral triangle with a constant velocity v as shown in the pic. They move towards each other ( the first one moves towards the second the second towars the third and so on ). It asks: When they are going to collide?

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/1038/77228846fl6.jpg"

Homework Equations


none


The Attempt at a Solution


all my tries were unsuccessful that's why I am asking for help ;p

tips are welcome
thanks in advance
 
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  • #2
Never. I don't see why they should.
 
  • #3
I forgot to mention that they're not going stay moving only on the triangle path, sorry.
 
  • #4
Calculate the change of area A of the triangle as a function of time, and then solve for t when A=0.

If each has moved dx in time dt with speed v, what's dA/dt?
 

FAQ: Solving a Simple Kinematics Problem: When Will Three Turtles Collide?

What is kinematics?

Kinematics is the branch of physics that deals with the study of motion of objects without taking into account the forces that cause the motion.

What are the basic types of motion in kinematics?

The basic types of motion in kinematics are translational motion (movement in a straight line), rotational motion (movement around an axis), and oscillatory motion (repeated back and forth movement).

What is a simple kinematics problem?

A simple kinematics problem involves finding the displacement, velocity, or acceleration of an object by using basic equations of motion and given information such as time, initial velocity, and acceleration.

What are the three equations of motion in kinematics?

The three equations of motion in kinematics are:

- Displacement: d = v0t + 1/2at2

- Velocity: v = v0 + at

- Acceleration: a = (v - v0)/t

What are the key principles of kinematics?

The key principles of kinematics are:

- Objects in motion will continue to move at a constant velocity or remain at rest unless acted upon by an external force.

- The velocity of an object is directly proportional to the applied force and inversely proportional to the object's mass.

- The acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the applied force and inversely proportional to the object's mass.

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