College Physics (7th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32160-183-1
ISBN 13: 978-0-32160-183-4

Chapter 3 - Motion in Two Dimensions - Learning Path Questions and Exercises - Exercises - Page 101: 79

Answer

For the boat to make a trip directly across the river, the velocity of water relative to ground is perpendicular to velocity of boat relative to ground. In a right angle triangle, the net velocity ie. velocity of boat relative to water is greatest. But the problem states otherwise. As per the problem, the speed of water is higher than the speed of the boat relative to the water. This is not possible.

Work Step by Step

For the boat to make a trip directly across the river, the velocity of water relative to ground is perpendicular to velocity of boat relative to ground. In a right angle triangle, the net velocity ie. velocity of boat relative to water is greatest. But the problem states otherwise. As per the problem, the speed of water is higher than the speed of the boat relative to the water. This is not possible.
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