Understanding Motion in Physics: Homework Inquiry

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    Motion Physics
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding motion in physics, specifically focusing on average speed calculations and the interpretation of related equations. Participants are exploring the definitions and relationships between distance, time, and speed in the context of a homework problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various methods for calculating average speed, questioning the validity of their approaches and the underlying definitions. Some express confusion about the relationship between time and distance, while others attempt to clarify the correct formulas and reasoning behind their calculations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants actively questioning each other's methods and seeking clarification on definitions. Some have provided feedback on the correctness of approaches, while others are still grappling with understanding the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be some confusion regarding the application of formulas and the definitions of average speed, with participants acknowledging mistakes in their calculations. The original poster has indicated uncertainty about the problem's requirements and the relevant equations.

RyanH42
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Homework Statement


I have a picture of the question

Homework Equations


I don't know the equation realted to this question

The Attempt at a Solution


I didnt understand the question
 

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Why don't you start by identifying what the problem is asking for? What are the definitions for those quantities?
 
For a ) I used this ##s_a=(d_1/t_1+d_2/t_2)/2## for b)I did ##s_a=(2d/(t_1+t_2))##
It worked but I don't know why ??
For c I am stucked I know the answer of d its zero
 
You might find it helpful to explain your reasoning when writing out your solutions. You should definitely do it when posting here rather than expecting us to read your mind. If you're just plugging in numbers to random formulas with no real understanding why, you're setting yourself up for failure in physics.

Your method for (a) looks wrong. Your method for (b) is wrong. The units don't work out. You can't add d/t1 to t2.
 
Lets look at then please wait me
 
For a) the average speed is ##s_a=Δx/Δt## ok.So half of the time the car goes 55 km/h let's call total trip t and total distance d so the equation will be ##55km/h.t_1+90km/h.t_1=d## , ##t_1=t/2## average speed is total distance divided by time so ##d/2t_1= 145t_1/2t_1=72.5 km/h##

For b) So half of the distance is ##d/2## so ;

##d/2=55km/h.t_1##
##d/2=90km/h.t_2##

so ##t_1/t_2=1,636## so ##t_1=t_2.1,636##

##s_a=Δx/Δt##

##s_a=d/(t_1+t_2)=180t_2/(t_2+t_2.1.636)##
 
Last edited:
Is that wrong ?
 
Did you mix up ##t_1## and ##t_2## in the denominator in (b)? (a) looks right.
 
I made a wrong in b but I don't know why I check the answer
total time=t1+t2
 
  • #10
Now I fixed
 
  • #11
lets come to see c) which its (savg1+savg2)/2
 
  • #12
The average speed is not the average of the speeds.
 
  • #13
then what it is ?
 
  • #14
Go back to the definition. You used it already.
 
  • #15
##s_a=Δx/Δt##
Δx=2d
Δt=2t
Can you show me how to do that please
 

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