Average Velocities: Constant Speed on Circular Path

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of average velocity in the context of an object moving at a constant speed along a circular path. Participants are exploring the relationship between net displacement and average velocity, particularly when the object returns to its starting point.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the definition of average velocity and its dependence on net displacement, questioning whether it is zero when returning to the starting point. There is also mention of average speed and its distinction from average velocity.

Discussion Status

Some participants affirm the original poster's reasoning regarding average velocity being zero, while others note the common confusion between average velocity and average speed. The discussion reflects a mix of agreement and clarification on these concepts.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a potential misunderstanding stemming from a professor's explanation, indicating that assumptions about terminology may be under scrutiny.

AdkinsJr
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I have a question about average velocity. It's defined as the net displacement divided by the time. So if I have an object moving at a constant speed on a circular path, is the average velocity zero every time the object returns to the starting point? My reasoning is that the net displacement is zero.
 
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Your reasoning is correct!
 
Yes that's right. The average velocity is zero. But the average speed is not.
 
Thaakisfox said:
Yes that's right. The average velocity is zero. But the average speed is not.

Ok, that's what I thought. My professor worked out a problem where the object returned to the starting point, and claimed a value for the average velocity. I think she meant average speed and left me confused. :confused:
 
Well yes, that is a common mistake ;)
 

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