How to Calculate Time to Cross a Harbor when Consider Tidal Current

Question:

How can we determine the time it takes for a kayaker to cross a harbor considering the tidal current?

Answer:

Calculating the time it would take for a kayaker to cross a harbor while factoring in the tidal current involves understanding the kayaker's speed, the width of the harbor, and the velocity of the current. By applying the formula time = distance / speed, we can determine the approximate time needed for the kayaker to complete the crossing.

Explanation:

When a kayaker needs to paddle across a harbor, like in the scenario provided, it is essential to account for any external factors, such as tidal currents. In this situation, the kayaker is paddling north across a harbor that is 120 meters wide, while a tidal current flows to the east at a speed of 2.2 m/s. The kayaker has a paddling speed of 3.2 m/s.

To calculate the time it would take for the kayaker to cross the harbor, we use the formula time = distance / speed. In this case, the distance is 120 meters, and the kayaker's speed is 3.2 m/s. By dividing the distance by the kayaker's speed, we find that it would take approximately 37.5 seconds for the kayaker to complete the crossing.

It's important to note that the eastward current does not affect the northward speed of the kayak, allowing us to focus on the kayaker's paddling speed to determine the crossing time accurately.

By understanding how to calculate the time it takes for a kayaker to cross a harbor while considering factors like tidal currents, we can ensure safer and more efficient navigation in water bodies with varying conditions.