23 Oct 2021
Problem 6
Page 42
Section: MisConceptual Questions
Chapter 2: Describing motion: Kinematics in one dimension
Textbook ExpertVerified Tutor
23 Oct 2021
Given information
- Total Distance =
- Speed=.
- To find the average speed.
Step-by-step explanation
Step 1.
Determine the probelm.
The common misconception here is in calculating averages. It is often forgotten that speed is already a ratio (of distance and time).
The average of ratios leads to compound fractions.
Average speed is not always , which might lead us to (wrongly) answer this with:
Average speed is defined as .
The total distance here is ,covered in two equal stages (distance-wise).
But the times needed to cover these stages are not equal.
Unlock all Textbook Solutions
Already have an account? Log in