Gr.12 Physics Help: Drawing Tangents for Velocity/Accel/Speed

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on techniques for drawing tangents to curves in Grade 12 physics to determine instantaneous velocity, acceleration, and speed. A recommended resource is the Physics Classroom website, specifically lessons 3 and 4, which provide foundational knowledge. Additionally, a practical method involving a pocket mirror is shared, where aligning the mirror perpendicular to the curve helps accurately draw tangents. This method enhances understanding of the geometric relationship between curves and their tangents.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly kinematics.
  • Familiarity with graphical representation of functions and curves.
  • Knowledge of instantaneous velocity and acceleration definitions.
  • Basic skills in using reflective tools for geometric constructions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the Physics Classroom's lessons on kinematics for a deeper understanding of motion.
  • Practice drawing tangents using various curves to solidify the concept of instantaneous rates.
  • Learn about calculus concepts related to derivatives for a mathematical approach to tangents.
  • Investigate other graphical methods for analyzing motion, such as velocity-time graphs.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying Grade 12 physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone interested in mastering the graphical analysis of motion.

F.B
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I just started Gr.12 physics and I am sort of lost. Does anyone know a site where i can learn perfectly how to draw tangents of curves to determine instantaneous velocity or acceleration or even speed. I really need to learn this stuff.
 
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Drawing tangents to curves? Here' a method I learned in high school- take a small pocket mirror and line it up approximately perpendicular to the curve. Turn it slightly until the reflection of the curve in the mirror appears to smoothly continue it. Now the mirror really is accurately perpendicular to the curve at that point. Now you can turn and use the mirror in the same way to draw a perpendicular to that new line at the same point. This second line will be tangent to the curve.
 

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