What is the Average Velocity Problem and How Can It Be Solved?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem concerning average velocity during a trip. The original poster presents a scenario where they aim to average 90 km/h but have only achieved 48 km/h for the first half of the distance, questioning what speed is necessary for the second half to meet their goal.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the application of the average velocity formula and the implications of the given information. The original poster expresses concern about the lack of specific values, while others suggest logical reasoning and consideration of the average velocity formula.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants offering different perspectives on how to approach the problem. Some guidance has been provided regarding the use of the average velocity formula, but no consensus has been reached on the solution.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted constraint regarding the limited information provided in the problem statement, which has led to questions about the reasonableness of the scenario and the assumptions involved.

cocoavi
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I had a physics problem which I had some problem understanding. The problem is:

You plan a trip on which you want to average 90km/h. You cover the first half of the distance at an average speed of only 48km/h. What must your average speed be in the second half of the trip to meet your goal? Note that the velocities are based on half the distance, not half the time. Is this reasonable?

Thanks for your help!
 
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Just plug in the values you know to the average velocity formula and set vf to x :smile:
 
yes I know that if the question had given me any values at all.. but the problem is, that was what the book has given me.. that's all the information I have.
 
It is possible to solve it with the information given :wink: just think about it logically and take a look at that Vavg formula.
 

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