Finding Distance -- Hockey Puck Velocity

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the distance traveled by an ice hockey puck with an initial velocity of 45 m/s over a duration of 3.0 seconds. Two formulas are presented: D = v*t, which yields a distance of 135 meters, and Δd = vΔt + 0.5aΔt², which accounts for acceleration. The correct approach depends on whether friction is considered; without friction, the puck travels 135 meters, while with friction, the calculations change. The importance of understanding when to apply each formula is emphasized, particularly in scenarios involving forces and friction.

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Homework Statement


An ice hockey puck leaves a hockey stick with a velocity of 45 m/s, how far will it travel in 3.0 seconds?


Homework Equations


D = v/t or

## \Delta \vec d= \frac 1 2 \vec a \Delta t^2##

with ## \vec a = v_2 / \Delta t##

The Attempt at a Solution


[/B]
D = v/t
= 45 m/s / 3 = 135 meters

or ##0.5 (15 m/s^2) (3)^2## = 67.5 meters

Which one is it, and more importantly... how do I tell the difference on when to use each formula?

Thank you
 
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Since no friction is mentioned, I believe for this problem you should assume there is no friction, which means the velocity is constant. In other words, a = 0.
 
Thank you both very much. Very helpful.
 
Actually a follow up question to this adds friction. The puck is hit with a force of 15.3 N and the friction slowing it down is 0.75 N.
Same time (3.0 s) same velocity (45 m/s)

So a = f/m then plug that into the second formula mentioned above?
 
Catchingupquickly said:
##\Delta \vec d= \frac 1 2 \vec a \Delta t^2##
with ## a = v_2 / \Delta t##
Those equations are not quite right. It is ##\Delta d= v\Delta t+ \frac 1 2 a \Delta t^2## and ##a =\Delta v/\Delta t##.
You are not told the puck stops in 3 seconds. If you assume it keeps going at v then Δv=0 and a =0, so you end up with the same equation as d=vt.
 
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Extremely helpful. Thank you
 

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