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, give 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 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.