If you throw a cigarette out a car window that is moving at 10 mph where will it land
To determine where the cigarette will land when thrown out of a moving car window, we need to consider the interconnected physics involved. It depends on various factors such as the speed of the car, the angle at which the cigarette is thrown, the wind speed and direction, and the aerodynamics of the cigarette itself.
Here's a step-by-step process to help you understand how to approach this question theoretically:
1. Start by determining the horizontal velocity of the cigarette. In this case, the velocity of the car is 10 mph, which translates to approximately 4.47 meters per second (mps). Assume that the velocity of the cigarette thrown relative to the car is zero, meaning it is not influenced by any forces within the car.
2. Consider the vertical motion of the cigarette. When thrown out of the car window, the cigarette will experience two primary forces: gravity and air resistance. Gravity will act vertically downward, while air resistance will act opposite to the direction of the cigarette's motion.
3. Estimate the time it takes for the cigarette to fall to the ground. Assuming no other vertical forces are acting on it, we can use the equations of motion. Since the initial vertical velocity of the cigarette is zero, the equation to find the time of flight is t = sqrt(2h/g), where h is the vertical distance and g is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.8 m/s²).
4. Calculate the horizontal distance traveled by the car during this time. The horizontal distance (d) can be found using the equation d = v * t, where v is the horizontal velocity of the car and t is the time of flight.
5. Consider the variables that may complicate the estimation. The presence of wind can significantly affect the trajectory of the cigarette. Wind speed and direction need to be taken into account to make a more accurate prediction.
It's important to note that this explanation provides a theoretical understanding of solving the problem. In practice, numerous factors need to be considered, including changing wind conditions, variations in the car's speed, and the precise manner in which the cigarette is thrown.