Simple average speed/average velocity problem

  • Thread starter Thread starter SoConfused__
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Average Velocity
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Jeremy's average speed while training for a boxing match is calculated to be 12.3 km/h, which should be rounded to 12 km/h due to significant figures. He runs 8.0 km at an average speed of 16 km/h and returns at 10 km/h, resulting in a total distance of 16 km and a total time of 1.3 hours. The average velocity is determined to be 0 km/h, as there is no net displacement from the starting point. The calculations provided are accurate and align with the principles of average speed and velocity in physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of average speed and average velocity concepts
  • Familiarity with basic physics equations, specifically Vavg = Total Distance / Total Time
  • Knowledge of significant figures in measurements
  • Basic arithmetic skills for calculating speed and time
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of displacement versus distance in physics
  • Learn about significant figures and their importance in scientific calculations
  • Explore more complex average speed problems involving varying speeds
  • Investigate the differences between scalar and vector quantities in physics
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students beginning their studies in physics, particularly those learning about motion, average speed, and average velocity calculations.

SoConfused__
Messages
23
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Jeremy is training for a boxing match. He runs due north at an average speed of 16km/h for the first 8.0 km and returns to the training camp at an average speed of 10 km/h. Calculate his average speed and his velocity.


Homework Equations


Vavg = Total Distance / Total Time
Average Velocity = Final displacement / Total time taken


The Attempt at a Solution


16 km/h for first 8.0 km = 0.5 hours
10 km/h for the trip back = 0.8 hours
Total time taken = 1.3 hours
Total distance = 16 km

Average speed = 16/1.3
=12.3 km/h.

The answer on my sheet is 12km/h. Am I doing something wrong or is it just rounded?
For average velocity, would it be 0? Since there is no displacement from the starting point?

I am just starting physics, and I just need guidance in the right direction.

Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Your calcs look good. Yes, the answer should be rounded to 2 digits since all the given quantities are accurate to 2 digits.
 
Alright, thank you!
Sorry if this seems like a silly question, I just want to make sure my work is correct before going forward.
 

Similar threads

Two Equations for Average Velocity?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Momentum: instantaneous or average?
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Calculate the average speed and average velocity
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Vectors: Displacement, average velocity & speed
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
What are the average speed formulas needed to solve this problem?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K
Calculating Average Speed: Physics Homework Problem
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
Kinematics - identifying and describing types of motion
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Finding Maximum Velocity in Train Motion
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
How to calculate average velocity given distance and time?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
How to Calculate Average Velocity with Displacement & Speed?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K