Q 3.22 Figure gives a speed-time graph of a particle in motion along a constant direction. Three equal intervals of time are shown. In which interval is the average acceleration greatest in magnitude? In which interval is the average speed greatest? Choosing the positive direction as the constant direction of motion gives the signs of v and a in the three intervals. What are the accelerations at the points A, B, C and D?
The average acceleration is greatest in magnitude in interval 2 as in this interval the magnitude of change in speed is the greatest.
The average speed is greatest in interval 3.
v | a | |
Interval 1 | Positive |
Positive |
Interval 2 |
Positive | Negative |
Interval 3 | Positive | Zero |
In interval 1 speed increases, in interval 2 it decreases and in interval 3 it remains constant.
At points, A, B, C and D acceleration is zero as at these points the curve is parallel to the time axis.