Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Scalars and vectors

Scalars and vectors — practice question

A boat travels across a river whose water flows from left to right at $4.0\,\text{m s}^{-1}$. In still water, the boat has a speed of $6.0\,\text{m s}^{-1}$. The boat is aimed at an angle $\theta$ to a line that is perpendicular to the river banks. The combined velocity $v$ of the boat points in a direction perpendicular to the river banks. Determine the values of $\theta$ and $v$.

  • A$\theta = 42^\circ$, $v = 4.5\,\text{m s}^{-1}$
  • B$\theta = 42^\circ$, $v = 7.2\,\text{m s}^{-1}$
  • C$\theta = 48^\circ$, $v = 4.5\,\text{m s}^{-1}$
  • D$\theta = 48^\circ$, $v = 7.2\,\text{m s}^{-1}$

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