How Do You Sketch a Velocity-Time Graph for Constant Velocity and Acceleration?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around sketching a velocity-time graph for a particle moving with a constant velocity followed by a constant acceleration. The problem involves understanding the motion of the particle over a 10-second interval, specifically focusing on the effects of constant velocity and acceleration on the graph.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of final velocity and total distance, with one participant questioning the initial calculations and the relationship between acceleration and velocity. There is also a focus on clarifying the terminology used to describe acceleration as a vector.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem and questioning the assumptions made regarding the calculations. Some guidance has been offered regarding the definitions of vectors in the context of acceleration and velocity.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework assignment, which includes specific parameters for the motion of the particle. There is a noted confusion regarding the calculations and terminology used, particularly in relation to the vector nature of acceleration and velocity.

iamBevan
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Hi guys - i need some help with a really simple problem. I've just started doing physics in college, and I've had a homework question that just doesn't work out for me (I also have the answers).

A particle moves in a straight line with a constant velocity of 5m/s for 2 seconds. It then moves with a constant acceleration of -2m/s^2 for 8 seconds. Sketch a velocity-time graph for the interval of 10 seconds and find:

a) the final velocity
b)the total distance covered by the particle
c)the increase in displacement of the particle

i'm getting -10m/s for a - then 44.5m for b.

Could someone tell me if I'm atleast heading in the right direction? (no pun intended)
 
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iamBevan said:
Hi guys - i need some help with a really simple problem. I've just started doing physics in college, and I've had a homework question that just doesn't work out for me (I also have the answers).

A particle moves in a straight line with a constant velocity of 5m/s for 2 seconds. It then moves with a constant acceleration of -2m/s^2 for 8 seconds. Sketch a velocity-time graph for the interval of 10 seconds and find:

a) the final velocity
b)the total distance covered by the particle
c)the increase in displacement of the particle

i'm getting -10m/s for a - then 44.5m for b.

Could someone tell me if I'm at least heading in the right direction? (no pun intended)

If the initial velocity is 5 [given] and the final velocity is -10 [your calculation] then the change is -15.

AN acceleration of -2 for 8 seconds does not give -15 .
 
If I know my vector is -2m/s^2 then - how will I work out the final velocity of that vector from that?
 
iamBevan said:
If I know my vector is -2m/s^2 then - how will I work out the final velocity of that vector from that?

Why did you say your vector was -2 m/s2?

Surely you meant your acceleration was -2 m/s2.
 
Isn't the vector describing an acceleration?
 
iamBevan said:
Isn't the vector describing an acceleration?

Both velocity and acceleration are vectors
 

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