A particle moves along a straight line with velocity

MATHEMATICS · Subjective · AP · Calculus AB · Contextual Applications of Differentiation · Contextual Applications of Differentiation

Problem

A particle moves along a straight line with velocity v(t)v(t). The velocity is positive for 0<t<30<t<3, negative for 3<t<73<t<7, and positive again for 7<t<97<t<9. Without performing any calculations, decide which quantity is larger on 0≤t≤90\le t\le 9: the particle’s net displacement or its total distance traveled. Briefly justify your choice.

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