your boat departs from the bank of a river that has a swift current parallel to its banks. if you want to cross the river in the shortest amount of time, you should direct your boat
a.) perpendicular to the current
b.) upstream
c.) downstream
d.) so that it drifts with the current
Whether rowing or using a motor, the boat should be aimed across the stream to cross it most quickly. It will however be carried downstream as it crosses.
A.)Perpendicular to the current
A is correct because when you point your vector perpendicular to the current and the swift is hitting it you will be able to go straight across, but A is only correct if you want to go directly across, otherwise if you just want to get to the other side in the shortest amount of time without a specific place you want to land then it is the answer D.)So that it drifts with the current.
Hopefully this was helpful and please continue to ask questions so you fully understand! Have a great day...
~Smartycurly
(A magical wizard that helps you with your homework)
To cross the river in the shortest amount of time, you should direct your boat perpendicular to the current.
Explanation: When you direct your boat perpendicular to the current, you minimize the effect of the current on the boat's speed. This allows you to reach the opposite bank of the river in the shortest time possible. If you were to direct your boat upstream, it would take longer because you would have to work against the current. Similarly, if you were to direct your boat downstream or let it drift with the current, you would not be making progress towards your destination.
To determine the best direction to cross the river in the shortest amount of time, you need to consider the effect of the river's current on your boat. The key principle to keep in mind is that the shortest distance across a river is a straight line.
Let's break down each option:
a.) Perpendicular to the current: If you direct your boat directly across the river, perpendicular to the current, you will minimize the distance traveled. However, you will also be affected by the current pushing you downstream. This will cause your boat to drift downstream as you try to cross. As a result, this option will likely result in a longer crossing time.
b.) Upstream: If you direct your boat upstream against the current, you will be fighting against the current's force. This will require more effort and time to cross the river. Therefore, this option is not the best choice for minimizing the crossing time.
c.) Downstream: If you direct your boat downstream with the current, the current will help push your boat along. As a result, you will cover the distance across the river more quickly compared to the other options. This option will minimize the effort required and result in the shortest crossing time.
d.) Drift with the current: Allowing your boat to simply drift with the current will take you downstream and away from your desired crossing point. This option will not lead to crossing the river but rather drifting along with the current.
In conclusion, the best direction to cross the river in the shortest amount of time is option c.) downstream, taking advantage of the current to minimize the effort and achieve the quickest crossing.