The initial positions and velocities of the two ships are shown in the figure. Ships move without acceleration. How do I find the smallest distance between them?

Solutions of Savchenko Problems in Physics

Aliaksandr Melnichenka
October 2023

    <h3 id="back-link"><a href="/#1.4">$\leftarrow$Back</a></h3>

    <h3> Statement </h3>
    <p>
        $1.4.1.$ The initial positions and velocities of the two ships are shown in the figure. Ships move without acceleration. How do I find the smallest distance between them?

    <h3>Solution</h3>
    <p>
        <p >

In the reference frame of the second ship, the first one moves in a straight line along the vector $v_1 − v_2$.

The perpendicular dropped onto this line from the location of the second ship will be the smallest distance.

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