Chapter 10.7, Problem 58AE

Uniform Motion A Cessna (heading south at 120 mph) and a Boeing 747 (heading west at 600 mph) are flying toward the same point at the same altitude. The Cessna is 100 miles from the point where the flight patterns intersect, and the 747 is 550 miles from this intersection point. See the figure.

a. Find parametric equations that model the motion of the Cessna and the 747.

b. Find a formula for the distance between the planes as a function of time.

c. Graph the function in part (b) using a graphing utility.

d. What is the minimum distance between the planes? When are the planes closest?

e. Simulate the motion of the planes by simultaneously graphing the equations found in part (a).