The velocity (in m/s) of a particle moving along a straight line is recorded at…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
The velocity v (in m/s) of a particle moving along a straight line is recorded at irregular time intervals. The data are shown in the table.
Time t (s): 0 2 5 9 13 20
Velocity v(t) (m/s): 0 4 7 9 11 12
Assume that on each subinterval the velocity varies linearly with time.
(a) Using the data, estimate the distance the particle travels on the interval 0≤t≤20 s.
(b) Determine an approximate value for the particle’s average velocity on 0≤t≤20 s. Include correct units.
(c) Interpret the meaning of your result from part (b) in the context of the particle’s motion.