Train Collision Bird Flight Problem - Week 35 (11/26/2012)

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In summary, the Train Collision Bird Flight Problem is a hypothetical scenario used to demonstrate the concept of relative motion. It involves a train and bird moving at constant speeds in opposite directions, and the goal is to determine when and where they will meet. Factors such as initial speeds, distance, and direction of motion can affect the outcome, and the problem is typically solved using the equation d = rt. This problem has real-life applications in engineering and aviation, and can be made more challenging by introducing additional factors.
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Jameson
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Two trains travel toward each other on the same track, beginning 100 miles apart. One train travels at 40 miles per hour; the other travels at 60 miles an hour. A bird starts flight at the same location as the faster train, flying at a speed of 90 miles per hour. When it reaches the slower train, it turns around, flying the other direction at the same speed. When it reaches the faster train again, it turns around -- and so on. When the trains collide, how far will the bird have flown?
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  • #2
Congratulations to the following members for their correct solutions:

1) MarkFL
2) Sudharaka

Solution (from MarkFL): [sp]The bird will be in flight for the entire time it takes for the trains to reach one another, which is one hour, so the bird will have flown a distance of 90 miles.

*Note - They trains collide in 1 hour since they are 100 miles apart and traveling 40mph and 60 mph, thus each covering 40 miles and 60 miles in the span of 1 hour.*[/sp]
 

FAQ: Train Collision Bird Flight Problem - Week 35 (11/26/2012)

What is the Train Collision Bird Flight Problem?

The Train Collision Bird Flight Problem is a hypothetical scenario that is often used in physics and engineering courses to demonstrate the concept of relative motion. It involves a train traveling at a constant speed and direction, while a bird flies towards the train at a constant speed from the opposite direction. The problem asks how long it will take for the bird to reach the train and what distance it will travel during that time.

What factors affect the outcome of the Train Collision Bird Flight Problem?

The outcome of the Train Collision Bird Flight Problem is affected by several factors, including the initial speeds of the train and bird, the distance between them, and the direction of their motion. Additionally, the problem can be made more complex by introducing factors such as wind resistance or changing speeds.

How is the Train Collision Bird Flight Problem solved?

The Train Collision Bird Flight Problem is typically solved using the concept of relative motion and the equation d = rt, where d represents distance, r represents rate (or speed), and t represents time. By setting up equations for the train and bird's motion and solving for t and d, the solution to the problem can be found.

What real-life applications does the Train Collision Bird Flight Problem have?

The Train Collision Bird Flight Problem may seem like a simple hypothetical scenario, but it has real-life applications in fields such as engineering and aviation. Understanding relative motion is crucial for designing and operating vehicles, as well as predicting and avoiding potential collisions.

How can the Train Collision Bird Flight Problem be made more challenging?

The Train Collision Bird Flight Problem can be made more challenging by adding additional factors such as wind resistance, changing speeds, or changing directions of motion. These variations can require more complex equations and further demonstrate the concept of relative motion.

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