Final answer:
When on final approach to runway 24, you are coming from the southwest, heading northeast. An airplane landing on a runway traveling east experiences deceleration due to the reverse thrust, wheel friction, and braking action as it slows down and comes to a stop.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Runway Numbering and Aircraft Acceleration
If you are on the final approach to runway 24, you are coming from a magnetic heading of approximately 240 degrees, which means you are approaching the runway from the southwest, heading northeast. The numbering system for runways is based on their magnetic orientation rounded to the nearest 10 degrees; hence, runway 24 aligns with 240 degrees.
When discussing the acceleration of an airplane as it lands, it's important to consider the two types of acceleration: linear acceleration and angular acceleration. Upon touchdown, if the airplane lands on a runway traveling east, its main engines or reverse thrusters will provide deceleration - a negative acceleration that slows the aircraft down. This deceleration will occur in the opposite direction of the aircraft's initial movement, meaning it will act toward the west.
The airplane's wheels also play a crucial role in bringing the plane to a stop. As the wheels make contact with the runway, friction between the wheels and the runway surface provides an additional force that decelerates the plane. Moreover, if brakes are applied, this will further contribute to the airplane's deceleration. It's this combined effect of engine thrust reversal, wheel friction, and braking action that safely reduces the airplane's speed to a complete stop.