Understanding Scalar and Vector in 2-D Uniform Motion Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the calculation of average speed and average velocity for a fishing boat's journey. The boat travels a total distance of 8.5 km over 2 hours, resulting in an average speed of 4.25 km/h. The average velocity, calculated using vector addition, is determined to be 1.95 km/h directed at S50E. Understanding the distinction between scalar and vector quantities is essential for these calculations.

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  • Understanding of scalar and vector quantities
  • Knowledge of vector addition techniques
  • Familiarity with coordinate systems in physics
  • Basic skills in calculating average speed and velocity
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A fishing boat leaves port at 04:30 h in search of the day's catch. The boat travels 4.50km[E], then 2.50km, and finally 1.50km[W] before discovering a large school of fish on the sonar screen at 06:30h.

a) What is the boat's average speed.
b) Calculate the boat's average velocity.Solved a) by finding the total distance (8.5Km) and dividing it by the total time(2h).
I got 4.25km/h for my a). Which I have solved.

Don't understand b) at all.. Please help the answer is 1.95km/h[S50E]
 
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Try vector addition. Set up your coordinates so that the x-axis corresponds to east-west and the y-axis corresponds to north-south and have the boat start at the origin.
 
I think you have to understand what is speed and velocity thus you have to know what is scalar and vector.

Different set of mathematical rules apply to scalar and vector example addition.
 

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