Instantaneous Velocity vs. Average Velocity: Is There a Limit?

  • Thread starter Thread starter !Live_4Ever!
  • Start date Start date
AI Thread Summary
The discussion explores the relationship between instantaneous velocity and average velocity, particularly under conditions of high acceleration. It posits that if an object experiences infinite acceleration, instantaneous and average velocities could converge. However, one participant clarifies that under constant acceleration from zero velocity, average velocity is always half of instantaneous velocity. Mathematically, average velocity is expressed as 0.5(AT), while instantaneous velocity is AT. Ultimately, both velocities approach the speed of light but do not equate under normal conditions.
!Live_4Ever!
Messages
45
Reaction score
0
I was doing my science homework and this sudden, random thought came into my mind.

If an object has very very very high (if not infinite) acceleration, wouldn't the instantaneous velocity be the same as the average velocity?

sorry if it sounds like a stupid question, but it has been bugging me the whole day..
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Nope average velocity is always half of your instantaneous velocity while dealing with constant acceleration started at 0 velocity.

Mathematically.

Average velocity = .5(AT)

Instantaneous velocity = AT
 
yes, they both will be equal to the speed of light.
 

Thread 'Mechanism of Energy Conservation in Zero-Amplitude Sum of EM Waveforms'

Assume that this is a case where by sheer coincidence, two sources of coherent single-frequency EM wave pulses with equal duration are both fired in opposing directions, with both carrying the same frequency and amplitude and orientation. These two waves meet head-on while moving in opposing directions, and their phases are precisely offset by 180 degrees so that each trough of one wave meets with the crest of the other. This should be true for both the electric and magnetic components of...
View full post »

Similar threads

Momentum: instantaneous or average?
Replies
9
Views
1K
Calculate Distance Traveled: Instantaneous vs. Average Velocity
Replies
5
Views
2K
Conceptual problem in average/instantaneous velocity
Replies
4
Views
2K
Is Velocity Increasing Below the X-Axis?
Replies
17
Views
1K
B Need help with understanding time travel
Replies
8
Views
3K
Can instantaneous velocity be different from average velocity?
Replies
11
Views
2K
Ambiguous question on momentum and how it works...
Replies
13
Views
1K
I Comparing Clock Rates in Accelerated vs Constant Velocity Frames
Replies
14
Views
2K
Trying to find instantaneous velocity at a point
Replies
8
Views
4K
Physics: 1d Motion-Instantaneous Velocity vs Average.
Replies
2
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top