Velocity Time graphs and Displacements

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding a velocity-time graph and determining the total displacement represented by it. The original poster seeks clarification on how to calculate displacement from the graph provided.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the significance of the axes, particularly the interpretation of velocity and time. Some question how to handle the line crossing the x-axis and its implications for displacement.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring various interpretations of the graph and discussing the role of negative velocities. Some guidance has been offered regarding the meaning of the axes, but no consensus has been reached on the calculation method.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a common classroom problem, and some participants reference external resources for further clarification, indicating a potential lack of complete information within the thread itself.

amd123
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Homework Statement


How do i figure out the TOTAL displacement of this graph
http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/7677/36947032we7.jpg

Homework Equations



I'm guessing A=1/2bh
and A = bh

The Attempt at a Solution



I've got no idea due to the line crossing the X axis
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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ask yourself what velocities you're seeing. velocities include direction.

the Y - axis is telling you the velocity of the object, whereas the x-axis is telling you the time. you can tell the y-axis is velocity because of the negative values towards the bottom of the y axis. you can't see the negative values but they're there. remember the equation v = d/t :)
 
the line crossing the x-axis is simply the line that tells you the 0 point. it plays no significance unless your graphing line passes it. at the point that it passes that horizontal x-axis line, that would tell you your velocity is 0 m/s.
 
This problem is quite common in classrooms. The answer, along with the proper work, can be found at "www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yu_moia-oVI"[/URL].
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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