Instantaneous acceleration
Slope of line tangent to point on
velocity-time graphThe graph shows the mouse's
velocity versus time. Describe
the instantaneous acceleration at
A, B, C and D as positive,
negative or zero.
a positive at A
a negative at B
a zero at C
a negative at D
2.11 - Sample problem: velocity and acceleration
Solving this problem requires two calculations. The mouse car's velocity during the first part of its journey must be calculated. Using that value
as the initial velocity of the second part of the journey, and the rate of acceleration during that part, you can calculate the final velocity.
Draw a diagramThe mouse car goes 10.3 meters in
4.15 seconds at a constant velocity,
then accelerates at 1.22 m/s^2 for 5.34
more seconds.
What is its final velocity?
(^34) Copyright 2000-2007 Kinetic Books Co. Chapter 02