Speed related to Average Velocity

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between speed and average velocity in the context of a car traveling at different speeds over equal distances. The original poster expresses difficulty in understanding how these concepts relate, particularly given the average velocity for the entire trip.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the definitions of speed and average velocity, noting the distinction between scalar and vector quantities. There is an attempt to set up an equation based on the given speeds and average velocity, but some participants question the clarity and correctness of the original poster's approach.

Discussion Status

Participants are engaged in clarifying concepts and questioning the assumptions made in the problem setup. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationship between speed and average velocity, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct approach or solution.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the need for clarity in the problem statement and the potential ambiguity in the original poster's equation setup. The discussion reflects a lack of clear direction in the original question posed.

suessthezeus
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Homework Statement



I am having difficulty thinking about this problem. How is speed related to average velocity?

A car travels along a straight line at a constant speed of 47.0 mi/h for a distance d and then another distance d in the same direction at another constant speed. The average velocity for the entire trip is 33.5 mi/h.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I have been trying to think of it in these terms

(54 + Q) = 33.5

I know this isn't right...can I get some direction

Thanks!
 
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Velocity is a vector, meaning that it has a size and direction, speed is a scalar meaning that it only has a size.

Assuming relative values , distance d is equal to distance d, your set up could be:
(47MPH Forward + (X)MPH Forward)/2d = 33.5 Forward

Let d be any real number, in this case the simplest number, one. you would then have:
(47MPH Forward +(X)MPH Forward)/2 = 33.5 Forward
(47MPH Forward +(X)MPH Forward) = 67

Remember if it ask for a vector as a answer you MUST provide direction.

SPOILER: Attempted Soution-
X MPH Forward = 20
 
Where does (54+Q) come from? This probably belongs in the relevant equations section.
speed is a scalar quantity, average velocity is a vector
also
A car travels along a straight line at a constant speed of 47.0 mi/h for a distance d and then another distance d in the same direction at another constant speed. The average velocity for the entire trip is 33.5 mi/h.
this isn't asking a clear question, despite it's presence in the problem statement
 
I think he is solving for the second "constant speed"
 
Such a kind person so unlike myself XD indeed it was, or seems to be, implicitly there
 

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