Instantaneous (Midpoint)/Average Velocity?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving two theorems related to average and instantaneous velocity in the context of kinematics. Theorem 1 establishes that the average velocity (Vavg) is the arithmetic mean of the initial (Vinitial) and final velocities (Vfinal), expressed as Vavg = (Vfinal + Vinitial)/2. Theorem 2 asserts that the average velocity at the midpoint in time (Vmp) is equivalent to the instantaneous velocity at that midpoint, represented as Vmp = V(t/2). The participant successfully proved Theorem 1 using kinematic equations but seeks guidance on proving Theorem 2, particularly in applying the correct kinematic equations.

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Homework Statement



Prove the following theorems:
Theorem 1:

Vavg= (Vfinal+Vinitial)/2

TO Theorem 2:

Vavg=Vmp= V(t/2) <--Where V(t/2) represents a function read as V of t/2.
(t/2) is the midpoint in time for a given interval and V(t/2) is the instantaneous velocity at that time

Homework Equations



I need to prove these theorems esp theorem 2 (need to prove theorem 1 first) to relate average velocity (measured in lab) to instantaneous velocity (needed to calculate kinetic energy)

The Attempt at a Solution


I was able to prove theorem 1 using kinematic equation:
X-Xo = volt + 1/2at^2 and V=Vo + at
Solution:
X-Xo = (2Vot)/2 + (at^2)/2
X-Xo = (2Vot + at^2)/2
(X-Xo)/t = (2Vo + at)/2
(X-Xo)/t = [(Vo + at) + Vo]/2, substitute V=Vo + at
to get,
(X-Xo)/(t-to)= (V + Vo)/2= Vavg

For theorem 2, I have to prove it using a kinematic equation too. I tried but I'm not sure if I'm doing it right.
I tried using X-Xo = 1/2 (V+Vo)t
to get,
X-Xo= [(V+Vo)t]/2
(X-Xo)/(V+Vo) = t/2

Or using V(t/2) = Vo + a(t/2) ----> V of t/2
and plug V(t/2) in X-Xo = 1/2 (V+Vo)t
X-Xo = 1/2 [{(Vo + a(t/2)} +Vo)]t
but my answer didn't make sense.
 
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This is with constant acceleration, right?

Try drawing a graph of displacement vs time, and mark on all the variables that are mentioned in your (correct) solution to theorem 1. That should help you to think your way around the second part.
 
Last edited:

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