Calculalting displacement, distance and acceleration

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating distance, acceleration, and average velocity from a velocity vs. time graph, specifically when the graph represents a half parabola concave up. The distance traveled is determined by integrating the velocity, which can be approximated using Riemann sums if only a graph is available. Instantaneous acceleration is defined as the derivative of velocity, representing the slope at any given point on the curve, while average velocity is calculated as the change in velocity divided by the time interval.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus concepts such as integration and differentiation
  • Familiarity with Riemann sums for estimating integrals
  • Knowledge of velocity vs. time graphs and their interpretations
  • Basic understanding of kinematics and motion equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of integration in calculus
  • Learn about Riemann sums and their applications in estimating area under curves
  • Explore the concept of derivatives and their role in finding instantaneous rates of change
  • Investigate kinematic equations for uniformly accelerated motion
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching motion concepts, and anyone interested in understanding the mathematical relationships between velocity, distance, and acceleration.

doc.madani
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hello, i was wondering how i can find the distance traveled by an object in a velocity vs time graph, whilst the line being half a parabola concave up. Inregards to that how can i find acceleration and average velocity (just the formula's). i know in a constant velocity line acceleration is equal to acceleration, i just don't know how to find acceleration on a curved line. (just a gues, would you need to draw a tangent on a point of the line, and hence find the gradient of that line?)

thankyou :)
 
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doc.madani said:
hello, i was wondering how i can find the distance traveled by an object in a velocity vs time graph, whilst the line being half a parabola concave up.

The distance traveled will simply be the integral of the velocity. In the case where you only have a graph, you'll need to estimate the integral using say, Riemann sums.

doc.madani said:
Inregards to that how can i find acceleration and average velocity (just the formula's).

The instantaneous acceleration is simply the derivative of the velocity, that is the slope at any instance. The average velocity, is simply the final velocity - initial velocity divided by the time interval.

doc.madani said:
i know in a constant velocity line acceleration is equal to acceleration, i just don't know how to find acceleration on a curved line. (just a gues, would you need to draw a tangent on a point of the line, and hence find the gradient of that line?)

acceleration is equal to acceleration? The instantaneous acceleration of any point is the slope of the line at that point.
 
Pengwuino said:
acceleration is equal to acceleration? The instantaneous acceleration of any point is the slope of the line at that point.

my bad i was meant to say acceleration is equal to the slops, thank you i have a good understanding now :)
 

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