How Do You Calculate a Particle's Average Velocity?

AI Thread Summary
To calculate a particle's average velocity, determine the final displacement by subtracting the initial position from the final position and then divide by the total time taken. In this case, the particle moves from +0.5m to +2.5m over 6 seconds, resulting in a displacement of 2m. For average speed, calculate the total distance traveled, which includes the movement from +0.5m to -1.5m and then to +2.5m, and divide this by the total time of 6 seconds. It's important to note that average velocity considers direction, while average speed does not. Understanding these differences is crucial for solving related problems in dynamics.
markow202
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Hi everyone,

I am doing a Math Dynamics course as an independant study and a lot I have to teach myself. One problem I am stuck on I don't seem to know how to start it or which formula to use. The book has all the formulas but I don't know how to start...

question asks:

"A particle travels along a straight line such that in 2 s it moves from an initial position Sa = +0.5m to a position Sb = -1.5m. Then in another 4 s it moves from Sb to Sc = +2.5m. Determine the particle's average velocity and average speed during the 6-s time interval."

Im so lost please help
 
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For Average velocity

Find the final displacement of the particle from the initial position. Then divide this by the total time taken.

For average speed

Find the total distance traveled by the particle. Divide this by the total time taken.
 
One of the main points physicsprasanna is implicitly making, is that velocity takes into account the direction.
Speed does not.
 
Ok thanks I'll try to work that out.

If any more comments feel free. :smile:
 

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