Final answer:
When observing a bicyclist passing to your right, in their reference frame, you would appear to be moving in the opposite direction to their motion. Everyday travel often follows zigzagged paths, especially in cities. The physics behind turning, such as a bicyclist's need for centripetal force, is influenced by their angle, speed, and turn radius.
Step-by-step explanation:
When analyzing movements and perspectives in physics, the frame of reference is crucial. If you are standing on a sidewalk and observing a bicyclist passing by to your right, your movement relative to the bicyclist's frame of reference will appear different than from a stationary Earth frame. Specifically:
- In reference to question 38, since you are standing still and the bicyclist is moving to your right, in the bicyclist's frame of reference, you would be moving in the direction opposite to the bicyclist's motion. Therefore, the correct answer is b. in the direction opposite the motion of the bicyclist.
- The complex paths described in Figure 3.2 refer to the everyday reality that, instead of moving in straight lines, people must follow roads and sidewalks which can be zigzagged, particularly in busy urban areas.
- For the scenario in question e, the safety of the rabbit crossing the lanes depends on multiple variables such as the traffic flow and speed. If there is no traffic in the furthest lane from the rabbit, and it can safely reach the median or another safe spot, there is a chance for it to cross safely. However, it's not guaranteed and remains risky.
- The physics behind a bicyclist negotiating a turn are covered in FIGURE 6.33, which explains how the force of the ground on the wheel, relative to the center of gravity, provides necessary centripetal force for the turn, influenced by the angle, speed, and radius of curvature.