Kinematics of a point in rectilinear motion

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves the kinematics of a point in rectilinear motion, specifically analyzing the motion of point Q as it accelerates in different directions over time. The scenario describes the acceleration of Q changing at specified intervals and requires determining the initial velocity based on its position after a given time.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the equations of motion derived from the acceleration, questioning the integration constants used in different time intervals. There is an exploration of how to correctly apply the equations at the transition points of acceleration.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights into the equations used and raising questions about the assumptions made regarding the integration constants. Some guidance has been offered regarding the separation of constants for different motion intervals, but no consensus has been reached on the correct approach.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted confusion regarding the application of integration constants across different segments of motion, as well as the interpretation of the problem's conditions at the transition points of acceleration.

xzibition8612
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Homework Statement


A point Q in rectilinear motion passes through the origin at t=0, and from then until 5 seconds have passed, the acceleration of Q is 6 ft/s^2 to the right. Beginning at t = 5s, the acceleration of Q is 12t ft/s^2 to the left. If after 2 more seconds point Q is 13 feet to the right of the origin, what was the velocity of Q at t=0?


Homework Equations


x''=a
x'=at+c1
x=(a/2)t^2+(c1)(t)+c2


The Attempt at a Solution



At t=0:
x''=6
x'=6t+v0
x=3t^2+(v0)(t)

At t=5:
x''=-12t
x'=-6t^2+v1
x=-2t^3+(v1)(t)+x1

At t=7:
x''=-12t
x'=-6t^2+v1
13=-2t^3+(v1)(t)+x1

Now plug in t=5 s into the first set of equations and get:
75+(5)(v0)=x1
30+v0=v1

Plug these two equations into 13=-2t^3+(v1)(t)+x1
As for t in this equation, plug in 2 seconds because this new equation started at t=5 (and hence assume that to be the new starting point, thus 7-5=2).

I get v0 = -15 m/s
The book says the answer is +2. Obviously something went very wrong. Any help would be appreciated.
 
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xzibition8612 said:
Now plug in t=5 s into the first set of equations and get:
75+(5)(v0)=x1
30+v0=v1

How did you get the highlighted equation ?
 
plug t=5 into x'=6t+v0
Then knowing the fact that at t=5 the velocity is described by x'=-6t^2+v1, I set t=0 at this instant and thus 30+v0 = v1
 
you are using same constants on integration in different equations. the motion from t=5 to t=7
should have separate constants of integration from the motion t=7 onwards. that's why you are
mixing equations and got the wrong answer
 
But according to the problem, the motion at t=7s follows the same equation as the motion at t=5s (x''=-12), so shouldn't it be the same equations? Can you show me the correct equation? Because from the way I'm reading the problem my way to me is correct, when in fact it's not. I can't see it.
 

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