Velocity and acceleration on a track

In summary, the runner's velocity and acceleration are both largest at point B on the track due to the runner covering the most distance in both the x and y vectors. The acceleration is greater at this point due to the track being more curved, causing a change in direction and thus a change in velocity. The difference between velocity and speed is that velocity has both a vector and magnitude, while speed only has magnitude. The reason for the acceleration being greater in the curve is due to the change in direction, causing the runner's velocity to change and thus resulting in a change in acceleration. It is important to attempt the question on your own to gain a better understanding.
  • #1
mwhowell
17
0

Homework Statement

A runner runs with a constant speed around the track.

a) at which of the points is the runner's velocity the largest? Explain.

b) at which point is the runner's acceleration the largest? Explain.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I believe the runner has the highest velocity and acceleration at B because he is covering the most ground in the x and y vectors but I am not sure. Can anyone explain this to me?
 

Attachments

  • physics.png
    physics.png
    3.2 KB · Views: 415
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
a) there's really no difference between "the speed is larger" and "the velocity is larger". The speed is constant, so this question makes no sense.

b) The acceleration is largest where the track is the most curved
 
  • #3
velocity has a vector and magnitude so there has to be a difference and what is the reason the acceleration is greater in the curve? can you supply an explanation for that?
 
  • #4
mwhowell said:
velocity has a vector and magnitude so there has to be a difference and what is the reason the acceleration is greater in the curve? can you supply an explanation for that?

You should attempt this part yourself. Otherwise you will have had no input in the question.
 
  • #5
the reason i am asking is because i got the question wrong already
 

1. What is the difference between velocity and acceleration on a track?

Velocity is the rate of change of an object's position over time, while acceleration is the rate of change of an object's velocity over time. In other words, velocity measures the speed and direction of an object's movement, while acceleration measures how quickly the velocity is changing.

2. How is velocity calculated on a track?

Velocity can be calculated by dividing the distance traveled by an object by the time it took to travel that distance. In the context of a track, this could be measured by dividing the length of the track by the time it took for a runner to complete one lap.

3. What factors affect acceleration on a track?

The main factors that affect acceleration on a track are the force applied and the mass of the object. The greater the force applied or the lower the mass of the object, the greater the acceleration will be. Other factors such as friction and air resistance can also affect acceleration.

4. How does a curved track affect velocity and acceleration?

A curved track can affect both velocity and acceleration. In a curved track, an object is constantly changing direction, which means its velocity is also constantly changing. This results in a non-uniform velocity and acceleration. Additionally, the curvature of the track can also affect the force applied and the direction of the force, which can impact the acceleration of an object.

5. How can velocity and acceleration be used to improve performance on a track?

Velocity and acceleration are important factors in track performance. By understanding the principles of velocity and acceleration, athletes can optimize their training and race strategies. For example, by increasing their acceleration, runners can achieve a higher average speed and improve their overall time on the track. Additionally, monitoring velocity and acceleration data can help coaches and athletes identify areas for improvement and track progress over time.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
1K
Replies
12
Views
584
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
7K
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
6K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top