this post was submitted on 14 Mar 2024
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It can never escape because its turning speed helps nothing while the distance is big, so the pursuing ship can always catch up to it again.
The only reason a fighter pilot has a chance to escape a faster missile is when the missile's targeting system can only see in front of it, so when it overshoots it loses its target.
But with a faster turning speed, the chased ship can evade the pursuer forever, if the captain always turns at the perfect moment.
In a situation where wind isn't a factor, and there are no obstacles, this is true.
But since we're talking boats, I'm assuming wind speed/direction is a factor, so the ship that can adjust their orientation and sails to maximally take advantage of the wind could have an advantage.
When did the ships from OP's math question turn into sailboats?
Wind affects all boats, but I may have made an assumption when they asked about it in the context of pirates.