Ch. 02 - Describing Motion: Kinematics in One Dimension

Giancoli Douglas - Physics for Scientists and Engineers 5th edition

Giancoli Douglas5th editionPhysics for Scientists and EngineersISBN: 9780137488179Not the one you use?Change textbook

Giancoli Douglas 5th edition

Ch. 02 - Describing Motion: Kinematics in One Dimension

Problem 30a

Chapter 2, Problem 30a

Figure 2–42 shows the velocity of a train as a function of time. At what time was its velocity greatest?

Verified step by step guidance

Examine the velocity vs. time graph provided in the problem. The velocity is represented on the vertical axis, and time is represented on the horizontal axis.

Identify the point on the graph where the velocity reaches its maximum value. This corresponds to the highest point on the curve of the graph.

Note the time value on the horizontal axis that corresponds to this maximum velocity. This is the time at which the train's velocity was greatest.

Ensure that the graph is properly labeled and that the units of velocity and time are clear. This will help in accurately determining the time value.

If the graph is not clear or the maximum point is ambiguous, consider interpolating or estimating the time value based on the given data points.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Velocity

Velocity is a vector quantity that refers to the rate at which an object changes its position. It is defined as the displacement of the object divided by the time taken for that displacement. In the context of the question, understanding how velocity varies with time is crucial for determining when the train reached its maximum speed.

Graph Interpretation

Graph interpretation involves analyzing graphical data to extract meaningful information. In this case, the graph of velocity versus time allows us to visually identify the point at which the velocity reaches its peak. Recognizing the shape of the graph and the coordinates of its highest point is essential for answering the question accurately.

Time of Maximum Velocity

The time of maximum velocity refers to the specific moment when an object's speed is at its highest. This can be determined from the graph by locating the maximum point on the velocity curve. Understanding this concept is key to answering the question about when the train's velocity was greatest.

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Velocity-Time Graphs & Acceleration

Related Practice

Textbook Question

A baseball pitcher throws a baseball with a speed of 43 m/s. Estimate the average acceleration of the ball during the throwing motion. In throwing the baseball, the pitcher accelerates it through a displacement of about 3.5 m, from behind the body to the point where it is released (Fig. 2–44).

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Textbook Question

The position of an object is given by 𝓍 = At + Bt², where 𝓍 is in meters and t is in seconds. What are the units of A and B?

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Textbook Question

Figure 2–42 shows the velocity of a train as a function of time. During what periods, if any, was the velocity constant?

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Textbook Question

Sketch the v vs. t graph for the object whose displacement as a function of time is given by Fig. 2–40.

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Textbook Question

A bowling ball traveling with constant speed hits the pins at the end of a bowling lane 16.5 m long. The bowler hears the sound of the ball hitting the pins 2.75 s after the ball is released from his hands. What is the speed of the ball, assuming the speed of sound is 340 m/s?

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Textbook Question

Figure 2–42 shows the velocity of a train as a function of time. During what periods, if any, was the acceleration constant?

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