What is the distance traveled in the nth second?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a particle moving along the x-axis, described by the equation x = 7t + 12t², where the task is to determine the distance traveled during the nth second.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the formula for distance traveled in the nth second, with some suggesting it involves evaluating the expression at n and n-1. Others question the interpretation of "n" as a distance rather than a time variable.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the calculation of distance, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct approach.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be confusion regarding the definitions of variables, particularly the distinction between time and distance in the context of the problem.

lionely
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Homework Statement


A particle moves along the x-axis in such a way that its distance x cm from the origin after t
t seconds is given by the formula x= 7t + 12t2. What distance does it travel in the nth second?

Isn't it 7(n) + 12(n)2?
 
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lionely said:
Isn't it 7(n) + 12(n)2?

Nope.
 
distance it travels in the nth second = x(n) - x(n-1)
 
Oh ... thank you.
 
n+1 would be the distance traveled in each second after?
 
lionely said:
n+1 would be the distance traveled in each second after?

Show how? I doubt it.
 
lionely said:
n+1 would be the distance traveled in each second after?
No! "n" is not a distance at all. "n" and so "n+1" are times not distances.
 

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