What is the total distance traveled during the time interval?

In summary, the object with a constant acceleration of 3.60 m/s2 reaches a final velocity of 12.4 m/s over a time interval. Its displacement during this time interval is -15.99 m when starting with an initial velocity of 6.2 m/s and 15.99 m when starting with an initial velocity of -6.2 m/s. The total distance traveled during this time interval is 15.99 m in part (b) and 15.93 m in part (c) due to the object reversing its direction.
  • #1
nbroyle1
43
0
An object moves with constant acceleration 3.60 m/s2 and over a time interval reaches a final velocity of 12.4 m/s.

(a) If its initial velocity is 6.2 m/s, what is its displacement during the time interval?
(b) What is the distance it travels during this interval?
(c) If its initial velocity is −6.2 m/s, what is its displacement during the time interval?
(d) What is the total distance it travels during the interval in part (c)?

I have already solve parts a, b, and c. For some reason d is tricking me though. is total distance different than distance traveled in part b??
a-15.99m
b-15.99m
c-15.93
d-?
 
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  • #2
Yes, the distance traveled in d is different than the distance traveled in b, the object travels a certain distance backwards in d since the initial velocity is negative.
 
  • #3
The standard kinematic equations always give displacement. When initial velocity is opposite to acceleration, particle will stop some time in future and then reverse its direction. If the time considered is less than time of stopping then distance will be same as the disp, but when time involved is greater than the time of stopping then you should calculate in two steps:
Displacement while stopping and displacement from stopping to the time considered. Add them and get the answer.
 

1. What is the definition of total distance traveled?

Total distance traveled refers to the sum of all distances covered while traveling from one point to another. It takes into account all changes in direction and includes both forward and backward movements.

2. How is total distance traveled calculated?

Total distance traveled is calculated by adding together the distances traveled in each individual segment of a journey. This can be done by using a map and measuring the distance between each point, or by using a GPS device that tracks and records the distance traveled.

3. Is total distance traveled the same as displacement?

No, total distance traveled and displacement are not the same. Displacement is the straight-line distance between the starting and ending points of a journey, while total distance traveled takes into account all changes in direction and movements along the way.

4. How does speed affect total distance traveled?

Speed has a direct impact on total distance traveled. The faster an object or person moves, the greater the total distance traveled will be in a given amount of time. This is because speed is a measure of how quickly an object covers a certain distance.

5. Can total distance traveled be negative?

No, total distance traveled cannot be negative. Distance is a scalar quantity, meaning it only has a magnitude and no direction. Therefore, it cannot be negative as it represents the total amount of ground covered regardless of direction.

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