I don't understand why velocity is positive here?

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    Positive Velocity
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The discussion centers on calculating the average velocity of a horse that gallops away from its trainer and then back. The initial confusion arises from the displacement formula, where the poster mistakenly considers the initial position as 116m instead of zero. The correct calculation involves using the final position after the horse returns halfway, leading to the solution provided in the manual. The average velocity is determined by the total displacement divided by the total time elapsed. Ultimately, the poster resolves the misunderstanding regarding the initial position.
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Homework Statement



It says that a horse gallops 116m away from its trainer in 14.0s and then abruptly turns and gallops halfway back in 4.8s.

I need to calculate average velocity . displacement/ time elapsed. displacement is xf-xi.

Homework Equations


avg velocity= displacement/ time elapsed

displacement = xf-xi

The Attempt at a Solution


Shouldn't it be (58-116)/18.8? the solutions manual says its 116-58/18.8...why?
 
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Frankenstein19 said:

Homework Statement



It says that a horse gallops 116m away from its trainer in 14.0s and then abruptly turns and gallops halfway back in 4.8s.

I need to calculate average velocity . displacement/ time elapsed. displacement is xf-xi.

Homework Equations


avg velocity= displacement/ time elapsed

displacement = xf-xi

The Attempt at a Solution


Shouldn't it be (58-116)/18.8? the solutions manual says its 116-58/18.8...why?

Nevermind, it's a dumb question I got it. xi does not equal to 116, it's equal to zero.
 

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