Calculate Larry's Average Velocity: Home to Lamppost to Tree | Velocity Homework

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Larry's average velocity from home to the lamppost is calculated using the formula v=d/t, where the distance to the lamppost is 371 m and the time taken is 9 minutes, resulting in a velocity of 0.687 m/s. However, the discussion highlights confusion regarding the direction of the velocity, as the positive x-axis is assumed to point east. It is suggested that the average velocity should account for the direction, indicating a need for a negative sign since the lamppost is west of home. Additionally, there is a clarification that the question likely intended to ask for the average velocity from home to the tree, which is 630 m east of home. The conversation emphasizes the importance of direction in calculating average velocity.
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Homework Statement



Larry leaves home at 11:08 and runs at a constant speed to the lamppost. He reaches the lamppost at 11:17, immediately turns, and runs to the tree. Larry arrives at the tree at 11:22. What is Larry's average velocity during his trip from home to the lamppost, if the lamppost is 371.0 m west of home, and the tree is 630.0 m east of home?

Homework Equations



v=d/t

The Attempt at a Solution



This is what I've done:
d=371 m
t = (9*60) = 540 s

v=371/540
=0.687 m/s

I'm just wondering what I am doing wrong can someone please help me
 
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I am wondering what you are doing wrong as well. Why do you think it is wrong? Because I think you did the calculation correctly.
 
Is the positive direction of the x-axis pointing east or west? If it's pointing east then you're missing a minus sign.
 
I strongly suspect that the question meant to ask for the average
velocity from home to the tree.
 
Thanks and I was missing the a negative
 
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