Velocity and acceleration of a person and train

In summary, a person standing on a top floor is trying to hit a train on the ground level using a "bomb" while the train is moving at a constant speed. The distance between the top floor and the train is 4.95 m. The objective is to use a stopwatch and equations to accurately hit the train.
  • #1
crystaluc12
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0

Homework Statement



A person is standing on top floor anywhere along a measuring tape that runs from point A to point B. There is a train on the ground level directly below that floor. The distance between the top floor and the level of the train is 4.95 m. Train is going from Photogate A (a sensor) (its directly below point A) to Photogate B (directly below point B). The train is running at a constant speed along the track and parallel to the balcony. Objective is to hit the train with a "bomb" blindly. You are given a stopwatch.

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Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Give us an attempt, we'll lend you our ears.
 
  • #3
Why don't you start off my stating some equations that could be used for this question.
 

FAQ: Velocity and acceleration of a person and train

What is the difference between velocity and acceleration?

Velocity is the rate of change of an object's position over time, while acceleration is the rate of change of an object's velocity over time. In simpler terms, velocity tells us how fast an object is moving, while acceleration tells us how much an object's speed is changing.

How are velocity and acceleration related?

Velocity and acceleration are related because acceleration is the change in velocity over time. This means that an object's acceleration is directly affected by its velocity. For example, if an object is moving at a constant velocity, it has no acceleration. However, if its velocity is increasing or decreasing, it will have a non-zero acceleration.

How is velocity calculated?

Velocity can be calculated by dividing the change in an object's position by the time it took for that change to occur. The formula for calculating velocity is: velocity = change in position / change in time. Velocity is typically measured in meters per second (m/s) or kilometers per hour (km/h).

How is acceleration calculated?

Acceleration can be calculated by dividing the change in an object's velocity by the time it took for that change to occur. The formula for calculating acceleration is: acceleration = change in velocity / change in time. Acceleration is typically measured in meters per second squared (m/s^2).

How does a person's velocity and acceleration change when riding on a moving train?

When a person is riding on a moving train, their velocity and acceleration are affected by the train's movement. The person's velocity will match that of the train, meaning they will be moving at the same speed and direction. However, their acceleration will be affected by any changes in the train's velocity, such as when the train speeds up or slows down. This is because the person is in a closed system (the train), and any changes in that system will also affect their velocity and acceleration.

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