Solving for Distance, Velocity and Acceleration

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving distance, velocity, and acceleration, utilizing exponential functions in a calculus context.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the differentiation of position to find velocity and acceleration, with some expressing uncertainty about their calculations. There is also a focus on the dimensional consistency of the equations used.

Discussion Status

Some participants have confirmed the correctness of the calculus involved, while others have raised questions about the dimensional aspects of the equations. Guidance has been offered regarding the need for consistent units, which has led to some clarification among participants.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the problem setter ignoring dimensional aspects, which has prompted participants to consider the implications of units in their calculations.

jenny121
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Homework Statement
The distance moved by a mass is related to the time by x=3e^(0.4t) m. Find the following value after 5 sec
Relevant Equations
x=3e^(0.4t)
Distance:
substitute t=5 into x=3e^(0.4t)
22.17m

Velocity:
v=dx/dt
=1.2e^0.4t____(1)
Sub t=5 back into (1)
v= 8.867m/s

Acceleration:
a=dV/dt
=0.48e^0.4t____(2)
sub t=5 back into (2)
a= 3.547 m2/s

I am not sure if i am doing this right on dx/dt and dv/dt
 
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Your calculus looks fine. You might question the dimensional aspects of these equations, which the problem setter has chosen to ignore.
 
PeroK said:
Your calculus looks fine. You might question the dimensional aspects of these equations, which the problem setter has chosen to ignore.
It can be fixed by giving the time constant a unit:
##x=(3m)e^{(0.4s^{-1})t}##.
Those units then flow through to the answer.
 
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I see, thanks. after putting the unit it makes more sense now
 
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