Vectors and motion in 2D (physics problem)

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The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving the motion of the bacterium Escherichia coli in a 2D plane. Participants are tasked with calculating the x and y components of the bacterium's velocity for four segments of its zig-zag trajectory. Additionally, they need to determine the total distance traveled and the net displacement of the motion. The final calculations involve finding the magnitude and direction of the average velocity for the entire trip. The thread encourages participants to share their attempts and specific challenges for better assistance.
natty210
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vectors and motion in 2D (physics 1111 problem!)

The bacterium Escherichia coli (or E. coli) is a single-celled organism that lives in the gut of healthy humans and animals. When grown in a uniform medium rich in salts and amino acids, these bacteria swim along zig-zag paths at a constant speed of 20\mum. The figure shows the trajectory of an E. coli as it moves from point A to point E. Each segment of the motion can be identified by two letters, such as segment BC.

(graph is attached!)***

a) for each of the four segments in the bacterium's trajectory, calculate the x and y components of its velocity

b) calculate both the total distance traveled and the magnitude of the net displacement for the entire motion.

c) what are the magnitude and the direction of the bacterium's average velocity and for the entire trip?
 

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Welcome to PF!

Hi natty210! Welcome to PF! :wink:

Show us what you've tried, and where you're stuck, and then we'll know how to help! :smile:
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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