A motorcycle has a velocity of 24 m/s, due south as it passes a car with a velocity of 15 m/s, due north. What is the magnitude and direction of the velocity of the motorcycle as seen by the driver of the car?
A)9 m/s, north
B)9 m/s, south
C)15 m/s, north
D)39 m/s, north
E)39 m/s, south

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The relative velocity of the motorcycle with respect to the car is the velocity of the motorcycle minus the velocity of the car. Since they are moving in opposite directions, you add their speeds: 24 m/s + 15 m/s = 39 m/s. The direction is the same as the motorcycle's direction, which is south.

A Motorcycle Has a Velocity of 24 M/s, Due South