What Time Achieves Maximum Velocity on a Rollercoaster?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the time at which maximum velocity is achieved for a rollercoaster, described by the velocity function v(t) = -sin(t) + 2sin(2t) over the interval from 0 to 5. The original poster seeks to find both the time and the magnitude of this maximum velocity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the derivative of the velocity function and explore algebraic manipulation to find critical points. There is also a suggestion to convert sine terms into cosine terms to form a quadratic equation.

Discussion Status

Some participants express uncertainty about the original question, questioning whether the stated maximum velocity of 4 is feasible based on the given function. This indicates a potential misinterpretation or error in the problem setup.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the use of graphing calculators is not permitted, which may affect the methods available for solving the problem.

Phoenon
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Homework Statement


The velocity of a a rollercoaster can be described by the fomula "v(t) = -sint + 2sin2t". The interval is 0-5. At what time and what magnitude is maximum velocity achieved?


Homework Equations


v(t) = -sint + 2sin2t


The Attempt at a Solution


v(t) = -sint + 2sin2t
v'(t) = 4cos2t - cost
4cos2t = cost
(not allowed to use graphing calculator)
Answer should be 4.
 
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Write:

[tex] \cos 2t=\cos^{2}t-\sin^{2}t[/tex]

now use [tex]\sin^{2}t+cos^{2}t\equiv 1[/tex] to turn sin into cos and you will be left with a quadratic equation in cos t, solve it.
 
Welcome to PF!

Hi Phoenon! Welcome to PF! :smile:
Phoenon said:
The velocity of a a rollercoaster can be described by the fomula "v(t) = -sint + 2sin2t". The interval is 0-5. At what time and what magnitude is maximum velocity achieved?

Answer should be 4.

Are you sure that's the right question?

2sin2t - sint can't possibly be as much as 4. :redface:
 


tiny-tim said:
Hi Phoenon! Welcome to PF! :smile:Are you sure that's the right question?

2sin2t - sint can't possibly be as much as 4. :redface:

scrap that, I made a mistake
 

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