Greatest change in speed from a force vs time graph

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Bensky
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[SOLVED] Need help with a force vs time graph. :(

Homework Statement


Which interval in Fig. MC3 corresponds to the greatest change in the speed of the body?
Force versus time graph: force rises linearly from 0 at t=0 to a plateau between about 2 and 3 s, then falls linearly to zero near 4 s and continues downward past 6 s. Time axis marked 0 to 6 s.

Figure MC3 is above.

a) 1-2s
b) 0-1s
c) 2-3s


Homework Equations



None

The Attempt at a Solution



I figured out that 1-2s has the greatest slope of the three, would that indicate that it has the greatest change in speed? It seems logical to me but I don't really understand this graph, so I don't want to guess and get the wrong answer (this is my last try to get it right). It seems like it would be really simple.
 
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  • Force versus time graph: force rises linearly from 0 at t=0 to a plateau near t=2, holds constant until about t=3, then falls linearly to zero at t=4, and goes negative after t=4.
    4-MC3.gif
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Bensky said:

Homework Equations



None

Wrong. What is the fundamental equation that relates force, mass and acceleration?
 
berkeman has it quite correct. Look at the relationship between force and rate of change of velocity (acceleration).

P.S. strictly this should be rate of change of momentum, but I won't confuse the issue ;-)

Edit: also, are you sure that the 1-2 second interval has the highest slope (gradient)? Look carefully.
 
Last edited:
OJones said:
berkeman has it quite correct. Look at the relationship between force and rate of change of velocity (acceleration).

P.S. strictly this should be rate of change of momentum, but I won't confuse the issue ;-)

Edit: also, are you sure that the 1-2 second interval has the highest slope (gradient)? Look carefully.

Thank you. :) solved