Determining instantaneous velocity and average velocity using a graph.

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating instantaneous and average velocity using a position-time graph of a rabbit in a tunnel. For instantaneous velocity at t = 5.0 s and t = 30.0 s, participants suggest using the slope of the tangent line at the respective points. Average velocity calculations are discussed for intervals t = 0 to 5.0 s, t = 25.0 s to 30.0 s, and t = 45.0 s to 50.0 s, utilizing the formula (Xfinal - Xinitial) / (t final - t initial). Participants express difficulty in obtaining correct answers, indicating a need for clearer understanding of slope interpretation and calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic kinematics concepts, specifically velocity.
  • Familiarity with graph interpretation, particularly position-time graphs.
  • Knowledge of slope calculation methods for linear and tangent lines.
  • Ability to apply the average velocity formula effectively.
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the concept of instantaneous velocity and its graphical representation.
  • Practice calculating slopes of tangent lines on various curves.
  • Explore detailed examples of average velocity calculations over different time intervals.
  • Investigate common pitfalls in interpreting position-time graphs.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone seeking to improve their understanding of velocity calculations using graphical methods.

Crescent
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The position of a rabbit along a straight tunnel as a function of time is plotted in Fig. 2-26.
Here's the figure:
http://www.webassign.net/giancoli5/2_26.gif

Determine its instantaneous velocity at the following times.
(a) t = 5.0 s
(b) t = 30.0 s

Determine its average velocity between the following times.
(c) t = 0 and t = 5.0 s
(d) t = 25.0 s and t = 30.0 s
(e) t = 45.0 s and t = 50.0 sa) I tried to find the slope of the straight line through [0,20] seconds by taking two points in it and take delta x / delta t

b) I drrew a tangent line to the curve at t = 30 then find its slope.For c , d , & e the avg v is:

(Xfinal - Xinitial)/(t final - t initial)

but still, I could not find an answer for any of them. It seems as if nothing is working.
 
Last edited:
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Welcome to PF!

Hi Crescent! Welcome to PF! :wink:

Show us what you've tried, and where you're stuck, and then we'll know how to help! :smile:
 
Where is your working?
 

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