What is the average speed of a gerbil running in a clear plastic tube?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the average speed of a gerbil running in a clear plastic tube, specifically focusing on the first 35 seconds of its movement as represented in a displacement-time graph.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the formula for average speed, questioning whether to use total distance or displacement. Some suggest calculating the area under the curve of the graph to find total distance, while others express uncertainty about how to apply this to a displacement-time graph.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of how to accurately calculate average speed, with some participants providing guidance on the formula and the need for precision in calculations. Multiple interpretations of the graph and its implications for the problem are being considered.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential issues with rounding and the distinction between distance and displacement in their calculations. There is an acknowledgment of the need for clarity on the graph type being discussed.

lostfan176
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Homework Statement



What is its average speed during the first 35 s?

2-P72.gif

(Figure shows the displacement-time graph of a gerbil running inside a straight length of clear plastic tubing.)

Homework Equations



any

The Attempt at a Solution



2 m / 35 sec = .06
its wrong though
 
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Since u_{average} = \frac{s_{total}}{t_{total}}, have to calculate the total distance traveled (not displacement), and divide it by the total time. To find the total distance, you would have to find the sum of the area under the curve.
 
bel said:
Since u_{average} = \frac{s_{total}}{t_{total}}, have to calculate the total distance traveled (not displacement), and divide it by the total time. To find the total distance, you would have to find the sum of the area under the curve.

how would u do that like a triangle? h = 2 b = 35 A=35 its wrong:(
 
Hmmm... seems to me like your original answer is right, but you didn't carry enough decimal places... maybe 0.0571m/s ?
 
bel said:
To find the total distance, you would have to find the sum of the area under the curve.

that would be for a v-t graph wouldn't it? not a d-t graph.
 
thanks a lot i guess i wasnt suppose to round
 
lostfan176 said:
thanks a lot i guess i wasnt suppose to round

no prob. did the answer go through?
 

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