How to graph x vs t and find average velocity?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating average velocity and graphing position versus time for a scenario involving walking and running distances. The problem involves two segments of motion with different speeds and seeks to understand how to represent this graphically.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the total distance and time taken for each segment of motion, questioning how to derive average velocity and represent it on a graph. There are inquiries about the interpretation of time taken for each distance and the implications of constant speeds.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided calculations for total distance and time, while others are exploring how to graph the motion and calculate average velocity. There is an ongoing exchange of ideas without a clear consensus on the final approach or solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a homework assignment, seeking guidance on the setup and interpretation of the problem without direct answers. There is a focus on understanding the relationships between distance, time, and velocity.

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I'm not looking for answers so much, just someone to get me started.
OK, you walk 73.2 m at a speed of 1.22 m/s, and then run 73.2 m at 3.05 m/s along a straight line. What is the average velocity of that problem?
Next I need to graph x vs t for the problem, and indicate how the average velocity is found on the graph. How would that be done.
 
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What time does it take to win each distance? What is the total time? What is the total distance?
 
Well, the total distance is 146.4 m. Would the total time be 84 seconds, (1 min, 16 seconds)? If that's right, what next? Also, what do you mean by the time it takes to win each distance? Thanks in advandce!
 
Assuming that both speeds are constant, the time of the walking distance of 73.2 m is 60 seconds, and the time of the equal running distance is 24 seconds. Because the velocities are constant, the function of position x(t) is linear. So, you just have to draw the graph of the function: [tex]x(t) = \left\{\begin{array}{cc}1.22t, 0 \leq t \leq 60 \\3.05t, 60 < t \leq 84\end{array}\right[/tex] The average velocity is v = (v1*t1 + v2*t2)/(t1+t2) = (1.22*60 + 3.05 * 24)/(60 + 24) = ...
 
Last edited:
1.74 seconds
So is that my answer for this problem?
Thanks!
 
1.74 meters per second. Yup.
 

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