Avg. Velocity = Distance Traveled / Time Traveled

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the equivalence of two formulas for calculating average velocity: Avg. Velocity = Distance Traveled / Time Traveled and Avg. Velocity = (V1 + V2) / 2, where V1 and V2 represent velocities over different segments. The user demonstrates that both formulas yield the same average velocity of 125 m/s under constant velocity conditions. However, the teacher asserts that the formulas are not equivalent in scenarios with varying velocities, highlighting the importance of understanding the implications of non-constant motion on average velocity calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically average velocity.
  • Familiarity with mathematical operations involving fractions and averages.
  • Knowledge of constant versus variable velocity scenarios.
  • Ability to apply formulas in real-world motion problems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the concept of instantaneous velocity and how it differs from average velocity.
  • Learn about the implications of non-constant velocity on average calculations.
  • Study the equations of motion in physics, particularly for variable acceleration.
  • Investigate real-world applications of average velocity in different contexts, such as aviation or automotive travel.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching motion concepts, and anyone interested in understanding the nuances of velocity calculations in varying conditions.

incognito301
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Do you know if these two formulas are the same?

Avg. Velocity = Distance Traveled / Time Traveled

&

Avg. Velocity = V1 + V2 / 2 (V1 = d1/t1 & V2 = d2/t2)

I have a problem that says that a plain goes from a place to another(1) and from there it goes to another place (2).

So:

t1 = 3 h & d1 = 375 km
t2 = 2 h & d2 = 250 km

and using both of the formulas I get the same Average Velocity.
So:

Formula 1 = (375/3 + 250/2)/2 = 125 m/s
.......... ----> Formula 1 = Formula 2
Formula 2 = (375 + 250)/(3+2) = 125 m/s
So I'm guessing they are the same. But my science teacher says they're not.

Do you agree with my teacher? How come?

If you think its right, can you show me a mathematical way to prove it?

Thanks.

P.S. Please answer ASAP.
 
Last edited:
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You are only getting away with Formula 1 because the velocity is constant in your example. What if it wasn't constant?

Say the plane moved a distance of 300 km in 2 hours, then an additional 300 km in 1 hour. Compare your formulas in this case.
 

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