Calculating Average Acceleration: Rebounding Hockey Puck Example

In summary, the average acceleration of a hockey puck rebounding from a board, as shown in Figure 16, is 7.3 × 103 m/s2 [7.5° N of W]. Despite the puck slowing down after striking the board, this high number is accurate due to the short time interval of 2.5 milliseconds in which the change in velocity occurs. The given textbook answer may seem incorrect, but it is important to double check and consider the brief duration of the interaction.
  • #1
charlotte1208
1
0
A hockey puck rebounds from a board as shown in Figure 16. The puck is in contact with the board for 2.5ms. Determine the average acceleration of the puck over the interval.

http://www.dumpyourphoto.com/files7/202298/medium/w1ifLZ3kRT.jpg​

The answer given in the textbook is 7.3 × 103 m/s2 [7.5° N of W]. That seems like way too high of a number. Especially since the puck slows down after it strikes the board. Can someone either explain to me why that is the answer, or let me know if the textbook answer is wrong? The textbook does sometimes tend to misprint answers.
 
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  • #2
Looks about right. Do the calculation and see for yourself. Realize that the change in velocity takes place over a very short time, only 2.5 milliseconds.
 

What is a vector?

A vector is a mathematical object that has both magnitude (size) and direction. It is often represented by an arrow pointing in the direction of the vector with a length proportional to its magnitude.

What is the component method of vector addition?

The component method of vector addition is a way to add two or more vectors by breaking them down into their x and y components and then adding the components separately. This method is useful when working with vectors in two dimensions.

How do you find the components of a vector?

The components of a vector can be found by using trigonometric functions. The x component can be found by multiplying the magnitude of the vector by the cosine of the angle it makes with the x-axis. The y component can be found by multiplying the magnitude of the vector by the sine of the angle it makes with the y-axis.

What is the difference between a scalar and a vector?

A scalar is a mathematical quantity that has only magnitude (size) and no direction. A vector, on the other hand, has both magnitude and direction. Examples of scalars include temperature, mass, and speed, while examples of vectors include displacement, velocity, and force.

How do you subtract vectors using the component method?

To subtract vectors using the component method, you first find the components of both vectors. Then, you subtract the corresponding components to find the components of the resulting vector. Finally, you use the components to find the magnitude and direction of the resulting vector.

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