How Do You Calculate Velocity in Calculus-Based Physics?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the velocity of a box influenced by tension and gravitational forces in a calculus-based physics context. The original poster presents a scenario where a box is held by a rope with a time-dependent tension function.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive the box's acceleration and velocity using integration of the acceleration function. Some participants question the derivation of the acceleration from the tension function, seeking clarification on the calculations involved.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants engaging in clarifying the original poster's calculations. There is an indication that some participants have found insights through questioning, but no consensus or resolution has been reached regarding the original poster's confusion about the velocity calculations.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses uncertainty about their acceleration formula and its implications for calculating velocity. There is mention of a discrepancy between their calculated velocity and a reference answer, highlighting potential misunderstandings in the application of the physics principles involved.

student34
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Homework Statement

A 3kg box is held up high in the air by a a rope with negligible mass. The rope's tension is depends on the function of time T(t) = (36N/s)*t. The box is at rest at t = 0. Only the forces tension and gravity act on this box.

a) What is the velocity at t = 1.0s?
b) What is the velocity at t = 3.0s?

Homework Equations



I think that my acceleration formula is the problem, but I don't know why.

a(t) = (2.2m/s^3)t - 9.8m/s^2 I took out the mass to get the box's acceleration and then I just broke up the applied acceleration from the constant gravitational acceleration.

v(t) = (1.1m/s^3)t^2 - (9.8m/s^2)t This is my integral of the acceleration.

The Attempt at a Solution



a) a(1s) = 1.1m/s - 9.8m/s = -8.7m/s but the book's answer is -3.8m/s.

I just can't grasp how I am wrong.
 
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How did you get 2.2 m/s^3 from 36 N/s?
 
voko said:
How did you get 2.2 m/s^3 from 36 N/s?

ƩFy = T - mg = ma; a = 12m/s^2 - 9.8m/s^2 = 2.2m/s^2, so I divided out the mass to get the box's acceleration of 12m/s^2. Then, I ...

Lol, ok, in my attempt to answer your question I see how it can work I can get the right answer. Thanks for asking :)
 
You are welcome :)
 

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