How to Find Instantaneous Velocity at a Specific Time?

  • Thread starter Thread starter [Nicolette]
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Velocity
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating instantaneous velocity using the formula v(1) = [h(1 + Δt) - h(1)] / Δt. The participant determined that v(1) equals -8 ft/sec, with h(1) given as 24. The challenge lies in manipulating h(1 + Δt) using the function h(t) = 16 + 24t - 16t². The teacher's solution indicates that v(1) can be expressed as -8 - 16tΔ, emphasizing the importance of substituting (1 + Δt) into the h(t) equation and performing algebraic expansion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus concepts, specifically limits and instantaneous velocity.
  • Familiarity with polynomial functions and their manipulation.
  • Knowledge of the difference quotient and its application in calculus.
  • Basic algebra skills for expanding and simplifying expressions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of limits in calculus to better understand instantaneous velocity.
  • Learn how to apply the difference quotient in various contexts.
  • Explore polynomial function manipulation techniques for calculus problems.
  • Practice algebraic expansion and simplification with calculus-related expressions.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those learning about instantaneous velocity and the application of limits. This discussion is also beneficial for educators seeking to clarify concepts related to polynomial functions and their derivatives.

[Nicolette]
Messages
7
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Find the instantaneous velocity at t=1 by computing v(1)= [h(1+\Deltat)-h(1)]/\Deltat

I found that v(1)= -8ft/sec. Also I know h(1)=24 but i don't understand how to manipulate the h(1+\Deltat) to get the solution.

Homework Equations



h(t)=16+24t-16t2

The Attempt at a Solution



The solution the teacher gave is v(1)=-8-16t\Delta
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What's h(1+dt)? Substitute (1+dt) into the h(t) equation.. and put everything in the v(1)= [h(1+dt)-h(1)]/dt equation. If you expand the equation and do some algebra you will eventually get the answer
 

Similar threads

Replies
40
Views
3K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Replies
4
Views
3K