PhysicsLAB: Chase Problems #2

s_pursuer = "gap" + s_leader
v_ot + ½at²	number	v_ot + ½at²
vt		vt

Refer to the following information for the next three questions.

Two balls are rolling in the same direction. When first observed, the slower ball is 1.5 meters in front of faster moving ball. The slower ball is traveling at 30 cm/sec while the faster ball is moving at 50 cm/sec.

Sketch (using general shapes) and then describe the position-time and velocity-time graphs for this chase problem. Circle on your position-time graph where the two balls collide.

How long will it take the fast ball to "rear-end" the slower ball?

How far did the slower-moving ball travel before it was struck by the faster-moving ball?

Refer to the following information for the next eight questions.

Interpret this graph showing two cars traveling north on I-95 in adjacent lanes. One car has just joined the flow of traffic after fixing a flat tire.

Although the cars are side-by-side at time t = 0, which car will initially take the lead? Support your answer.

What acceleration does car B experience?

At what time will the cars be traveling at the same speed?

At what time will they once again be side-by-side?

What speed will each car be moving at the exact moment that they pass each other?

How far did each vehicle travel during the chase?

If both cars maintain their velocities in part (d) after they pass each other, who would remain the leader for the rest of the trip?

Sketch (using general shapes) and then describe the position-time graph of this problem.