Calculating average speeds when distance is unknown

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In summary, the formula for calculating average speed when distance is unknown is speed = distance/time. In a practical scenario, you can calculate average speed by first measuring the time it takes to travel a certain distance and then using the formula. You can also determine the distance traveled by rearranging the formula and multiplying the average speed by the time. The speed of an object does not affect the calculation of average speed. However, it is not possible to calculate average speed when both distance and time are unknown.
  • #1
BogMonkey
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I found a brilliant website with physics questions + solutions here
http://www.solvephysics.com/problems_kinematics.shtml
the question I'm on they only tell you the speed traveled in fractions of the total distance but don't tell you the total distance. I looked at the solution but couldn't make much sense of where they got this from
kinematics_problem86_clip_image008.gif

heres the solution page
http://www.solvephysics.com/kinematics_problem86.shtml
 
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You know [itex]v = d/t[/itex], right? That can be rearranged to [itex]t = d/v[/itex]. Then just plug in values for that quarter of the journey.
 
  • #3


Calculating average speeds when distance is unknown is a challenging problem in physics. It requires a thorough understanding of kinematics and the equations that govern motion. It is not uncommon for students to struggle with this type of problem, and it is important to seek out resources that can help clarify the concepts and provide step-by-step solutions.

The website you have found, solvephysics.com, appears to be a valuable resource for physics questions and solutions. However, it is important to carefully examine the solutions provided and make sure you understand the steps taken to arrive at the answer.

In this particular case, the solution provided for the problem you are working on may seem confusing. It is important to carefully read through the solution and try to identify the equations and concepts being used. If you are still having trouble understanding the solution, you may want to seek out additional resources or ask for help from a teacher or tutor.

In general, when calculating average speeds when distance is unknown, it is helpful to start by identifying what information is given in the problem. This may include the time taken and the speed traveled in fractions of the total distance. From there, you can use the appropriate kinematic equations to solve for the unknown variables, such as distance or average speed.

Remember, practice and perseverance are key in mastering physics problems. Don't be discouraged if you initially struggle with this type of problem. With the right resources and determination, you can improve your understanding and ability to solve these types of problems.
 

FAQ: Calculating average speeds when distance is unknown

1. What is the formula for calculating average speed when distance is unknown?

The formula for calculating average speed when distance is unknown is speed = distance/time. This means that you divide the total distance traveled by the time it took to travel that distance.

2. How do you calculate average speed when distance is unknown in a practical scenario?

In a practical scenario, you can calculate average speed when distance is unknown by first measuring the time it takes to travel a certain distance. Then, you can use the formula speed = distance/time to calculate the average speed based on the given time and the unknown distance.

3. Can you determine the distance traveled based on the average speed and time?

Yes, you can determine the distance traveled based on the average speed and time. You can rearrange the formula for average speed to solve for distance, which would be distance = speed x time. This means that by multiplying the average speed by the time, you can calculate the distance traveled.

4. How does the speed of an object affect the calculation of average speed when distance is unknown?

The speed of an object does not affect the calculation of average speed when distance is unknown. As long as you have the time it took to travel a certain distance, you can calculate the average speed using the formula speed = distance/time regardless of the object's speed.

5. Is it possible to calculate average speed when both distance and time are unknown?

No, it is not possible to calculate average speed when both distance and time are unknown. In order to calculate average speed, you need to know at least two of the three variables: speed, distance, and time. If both distance and time are unknown, then average speed cannot be determined.

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