Racing Car's Avg Speed: Find the Answer!

In summary: In this case, it would be 480 miles. Then divide by the total time, which is 10 hours. So the overall average speed of the car is 48 miles per hour.In summary, the racing car traveled at 20 miles per hour for 2 hours, 40 miles per hour for 2 hours, and 60 miles per hour for 6 hours, for a total distance of 480 miles in 10 hours. Therefore, the overall average speed of the car is 48 miles per hour.
  • #1
iamchattha
8
0

Homework Statement


A racing car accelerates uniformly through three gears, changes with the following average speed
20 for 2.0 s
40 for 2.0 s
60 for 6.0 s
what is the overall average speed of the car?
a) 12
b) 13.3
c) 40
d) 48
e) 37

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Well? Where's your attempt?
 
  • #3
Doc Al said:
Well? Where's your attempt?
could not think of a possible formula.
 
  • #4
What's the most basic definition of average speed?
 
  • #5
Doc Al said:
What's the most basic definition of average speed?
distance traveled by an object during an interval
 
  • #6
iamchattha said:
could not think of a possible formula.

err, everybody in the whole world knows that

speed = miles per hour (or km per hour)

so you know one formula!
 
  • #7
William White said:
err, everybody in the whole world knows that

speed = miles per hour (or km per hour)

so you know one formula!
but in the case of above mentioned question three speeds and vales of time are give...not distance and time...i have to drive average speed using 3 vales of speed and time
 
  • #8
okay
you are in a car that goes 20 miles per hour for 2 hours; then 40 miles per hour for 2 hours and then 60 miles an hour for 6 hours.

how long has elapsed (in hours) and how far has the car gone (in miles) ?
 
  • #9
could it be done in a way that i first find out 3 values of distance( x= vt) using the above data and then taking 10 s as total time I find average speed?
 
  • #10
Q1) a car travels at 20mph for 2 hours. How far has it gone?
 
  • #11
William White said:
okay
you are in a car that goes 20 miles per hour for 2 hours; then 40 miles per hour for 2 hours and then 60 miles an hour for 6 hours.

how long has elapsed (in hours) and how far has the car gone (in miles) ?
William White said:
Q1) a car travels 20mph for 2 hours. How far has it gone?

40 miles
 
  • #12
iamchattha said:
40 miles
it would be 480 miles in total
 
  • #13
edit, you know how to do it now.
 
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  • #14
William White said:
edit, you know how to do it now.
are you referring to this
"could it be done in a way that i first find out 3 values of distance( x= vt) using the above data and then taking 10 s as total time I find average speed?"
 
  • #15
I'm referring to the fact you now know the total distance and the total time so you know the speed.

Don't overcomplicate this!
 
  • #16
iamchattha said:
distance traveled by an object during an interval
Exactly!

Just calculate the total distance traveled.
 

1. What is the formula for calculating average speed of a racing car?

The formula for calculating average speed is distance divided by time. This can be represented as: Avg speed = distance / time.

2. How do you measure the distance traveled by a racing car?

The distance traveled by a racing car can be measured using a GPS device, a speedometer, or by using landmarks on the track. The most accurate method is using a GPS device, as it can track the exact distance traveled by the car.

3. Is average speed the same as top speed for a racing car?

No, average speed and top speed are two different measurements. Average speed is the total distance traveled divided by the total time taken, while top speed is the maximum speed reached by the car at any given point. Top speed is a measure of the car's maximum capability, while average speed represents the overall performance.

4. How does the weight of the car affect its average speed?

The weight of the car can affect its average speed in several ways. A heavier car may have more momentum, making it harder to accelerate and maintain a consistent speed. On the other hand, a lighter car may have better handling and be able to accelerate more quickly. Ultimately, the design and aerodynamics of the car also play a significant role in determining its average speed.

5. Can external factors such as weather or track conditions impact the average speed of a racing car?

Yes, external factors such as weather and track conditions can significantly impact the average speed of a racing car. Strong winds, rain, or extreme temperatures can affect the car's aerodynamics and handling, making it more challenging to maintain a consistent speed. Additionally, the condition of the track, such as its surface and turns, can also impact the car's performance and average speed.

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