Investigation help on kinematics

In summary, a student is conducting an investigation on the relationship between kinematics and base running techniques in baseball. They are trying to determine if "rounding the bases" is more effective than running straight to each base and turning. They plan to use instantaneous velocity, average velocity, and time taken to round bases to evaluate the techniques. They also received advice to compare a runner turning 90 degrees at each base to a circular run at constant speed, and to use reasonable assumptions about the time needed to slow down and accelerate at each base. A speed v. time graph will be used to analyze the data.
  • #1
A2Airwaves
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Homework Statement


I'm currently working on doing an investigation on the relationship between kinematics and base running techniques in baseball. I'm trying to find out if "rounding the bases" is better than running straight to each base and turning, but I haven't found how I should preform the experiment and using what variables I should evaluate the technique. Can someone give me advice on it? How can I measure the velocities of the runner running bases?


Homework Equations


v=s/t
F=ma
p=mv


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm currently thinking of using:
- instantaneous velocity
- average velocity
- time taken to round bases
to evaluate the techniques, but I'm really lost... please help thank you!
 
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  • #2
Assume that the runner turns 90 degrees at each base. That means he has to stop his forward motion and immediately accelerate 90 degrees to the left at each base.

Compare that to a circular run (on a circle that touches on all bases and home plate) at constant speed.

Try using some reasonable assumptions about how long it takes to slow down and get back up to speed (how much distance is needed to slow to a stop - how much distance is required to accelerate to top speed)?. You might have to time somebody running some bases by starting/stopping at each base.

Do a speed v. time graph for each. Then work out the total time for each.

AM
 
  • #3
Thank you for the help, it helped a lot! I hope I will get good results from the investigation.
 

What is kinematics and why is it important?

Kinematics is the branch of physics that deals with the motion of objects without considering the forces that cause the motion. It is important because it helps us understand and predict the motion of objects, which is crucial in fields such as engineering, robotics, and space exploration.

What are the basic principles of kinematics?

The basic principles of kinematics include displacement, velocity, and acceleration. Displacement is the change in position of an object, velocity is the rate of change of displacement, and acceleration is the rate of change of velocity.

What are the different types of kinematics problems?

There are three main types of kinematics problems: constant velocity problems, constant acceleration problems, and projectile motion problems. In constant velocity problems, the object's speed remains the same. In constant acceleration problems, the object's acceleration remains constant. In projectile motion problems, the object moves in a parabolic path due to the influence of gravity.

What are the key equations used in kinematics?

The key equations used in kinematics are the equations of motion, also known as the SUVAT equations. These include the equations for displacement, velocity, acceleration, and time, and allow us to solve for any unknown variable in a kinematics problem.

How can I improve my problem-solving skills in kinematics?

To improve your problem-solving skills in kinematics, it is important to practice solving a variety of problems and familiarize yourself with the key equations. It can also be helpful to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts and to visualize the motion of the object. Utilizing online resources, such as simulations and practice problems, can also be beneficial.

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