Ship Movement in the Gulf Stream

Procedure

Level Two
Part 1
Calculate the resultant velocity of a ship in the Gulf Stream current.

Use the current velocities of the Gulf Stream to answer the questions on the Student Worksheet.
Note: 1 meter/sec (m/s) is equal to 2.2 miles per hour (mph) 

1. What is the fastest velocity of the Gulf Stream this week at 39^oN latitude and 69^oW longitude?

2. Calculate resultant velocity of Ship #1: Steaming 10mph due East (90^o) at 39^oN latitude and 69^oW longitude

3. Calculate resultant velocity of Ship #2: Steaming 8mph due South (180^o) at 39^oN latitude and 69^oW longitude
(Remember to change m/s to mph)

Saved Image: In case the real time data site is not functioning.

Example : Click Here for an example diagram.   


Part 2
Calculate the resultant velocity taking into account wind velocity.

Use the coastal monitoring network to obtain the wind speed and direction of winds at the Long Beach Island, New Jersey.  Assume the wind speed and direction will be the same on the coast as they are directly off the coast. Use your answers from Part One to answer the Assessment questions. 


Assessment
1. What is speed and direction of the wind at Long Beach Island, NJ?
2. Calculate resultant velocity of Ship #1
3. Calculate resultant velocity of Ship #2
(Remember to change m/s to mph)