How Do You Calculate the Average Velocity and Magnitude in a Squirrel's Path?

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To calculate the average velocity and magnitude of a squirrel's path from points A to B, C, and D, one should first define "magnitude" and "average velocity." The average velocity can be determined by breaking down the movements into parametric equations for x(t) and y(t), allowing for the calculation of each component during the specified time intervals. The magnitude of the average velocity is then found by calculating the resultant vector from these components. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding terms like "displacement" and "velocity" to accurately solve the problem. Overall, a methodical approach to defining and calculating these values is crucial for solving the homework question effectively.
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Homework Statement


The figure below gives the path of a squirrel moving about on level ground, from point A (at time t = 0), to points B (at t = 6.00 min), C (at t = 12.0 min), and finally D (at t = 18.0 min). Both axes are marked in increments of 1.50 m (therefore the diagram is not drawn to scale). Consider the average velocities of the squirrel from point A to each of the other three points.
W0054-Nalt.jpg

(a) Of the three average velocities, which has the least magnitude?
What is this average velocity in magnitude-angle notation?
(b) Which has the greatest magnitude?
What is this average velocity in magnitude-angle notation?


Homework Equations




The Attempt at a Solution



Dont even know how to go about starting this problem someone please help me out.
 
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OK. but what do you mean by magnitude-angle notation?
 
Not sure, that's what is asked for ...
the answer boxes look like this
[blank] m/s, [blank] ° (counterclockwise from the positive x axis)
 
The first thing you need to do is post the definitions of "magnitude" and "average velocity". The second thing is to try to use those definitions to answer the questions.
 
cwheats said:

Homework Statement


The figure below gives the path of a squirrel moving about on level ground, from point A (at time t = 0), to points B (at t = 6.00 min), C (at t = 12.0 min), and finally D (at t = 18.0 min). Both axes are marked in increments of 1.50 m (therefore the diagram is not drawn to scale). Consider the average velocities of the squirrel from point A to each of the other three points.
W0054-Nalt.jpg

(a) Of the three average velocities, which has the least magnitude?
What is this average velocity in magnitude-angle notation?
(b) Which has the greatest magnitude?
What is this average velocity in magnitude-angle notation?


Homework Equations




The Attempt at a Solution



Dont even know how to go about starting this problem someone please help me out.

Why don't you split each movement into a parametric equation, x(t) and y(t). From this you can find each component of average velocity during the time interval; after that simply find the magnitude of the resultant vector.
 
Fredrik said:
The first thing you need to do is post the definitions of "magnitude" and "average velocity". The second thing is to try to use those definitions to answer the questions.
I think it would also help if he posted his understanding of the terms "displacement" and "velocity."
 

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