A Navy vessel is traveling due north during wartime. A torpedo has been launched by an enemy directly toward the stern (rear) of the vessel. Can the vessel outrun the torpedo if both continue in a straight line due north?
To determine whether the Navy vessel can outrun the torpedo, we need to consider the relative speeds of the two objects and their positions. Let's break it down into the following steps:
1. Determine the speed of the Navy vessel: The given information does not state the speed of the vessel, so we'll need to assume a speed. Let's say the vessel's speed is V_vessel.
2. Determine the speed of the torpedo: Torpedoes are generally faster than Navy vessels. Let's assume the torpedo's speed is V_torpedo, which is greater than V_vessel.
3. Analyze the scenario: Since both the vessel and the torpedo are traveling due north in a straight line, we can assume their paths are parallel.
4. Assess the relative positions: Since the torpedo is launched directly toward the stern (rear) of the vessel, it means it is coming from behind. For the vessel to outrun the torpedo, it needs to move faster than the torpedo, ensuring that the distance between them increases over time.
5. Calculate the relative velocities: To determine if the vessel can outrun the torpedo, we need to compare their relative velocities. The relative velocity is the difference between the velocities of the two objects.
6. Assess if the vessel can outrun the torpedo: If the absolute value of the relative velocity is greater than zero, the vessel is moving faster than the torpedo. In that case, the vessel can outrun the torpedo if it maintains its speed and continues moving due north.
In summary, to determine if the Navy vessel can outrun the torpedo, we need to compare the relative velocities of the vessel and the torpedo. If the relative velocity is greater than zero, it means the vessel is moving faster than the torpedo and can outrun it.