Plane Curvilinear Motion: Relative Motion - Example Problem 3.6-3

 

The passenger plane A is flying east with a velocity of 620 km/h when a smaller aircraft B passes underneath heading south-east in the direction shown. To passengers in plane A, however, plane B appears to be flying sideways and moving due south. Determine the actual velocity of B and the velocity which B appears to have relative to A.

 

 

Find: v_B, v_B/A

 

Solution:

 

Video solution:

 

The following video walks you through the solution to this problem. It is suggested that you try solving the problem first and then, if you have difficulties with the solution, watch the video for help.

 

 

Interactive solution:

 

Make the south direction your positive x-axis and the east direction your positive y-axis.

 

Express the following quantities as vectors.

 

 

v_A = i + j kph     

 

v_B = v_B( i + j) kph     

 

v_B/A = v_B/A( i + j) kph