Finding Velocity from Acceleration Graph

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In summary, the conversation discusses finding the velocity of particles at t=7.0s using the geometry of graphs rather than kinematic equations. Integration is suggested as the method for finding velocity from an acceleration graph, but the conversation also includes discussion on how to properly calculate the area under the graph. The conversation concludes with a reminder that the result of integration is the velocity gain over the period, not the final velocity.
  • #1
Nitrate
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Homework Statement


Find each particle's velocity at t=7.0s. Work with the geometry of the graphs, not with kinematic equations.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not sure how to arrive at an answer. For the previous question (velocity from graph b) I found the value of -20 m/s by reading the graph and before that (velocity from graph a) I did a simple delta/delta[t] calculation and got -10 m/s. My issue is that I can't find an velocity at t=7.0s for graph C (the acceleration graph.) Please help.
Thank you.
 

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  • #2
Velocity is the integral of acceleration with respect to time. How could you read that off a graph?
 
  • #3
Ibix said:
Velocity is the integral of acceleration with respect to time. How could you read that off a graph?

by integrating the area at that point to the x axis?
1/2(2)(-20)
?
 
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  • #4
Integration is right, presuming you meant to the y axis. I don't think you've got to the right answer though, since there's more than one triangle to worry about in the 0-7s region of the graph. You can check your answer by counting squares for a graph this simple.

Remember that the integral just gives you the velocity change over the time period, which isn't quite what you're asked for.
 
  • #5
Ibix said:
Integration is right, presuming you meant to the y axis. I don't think you've got to the right answer though, since there's more than one triangle to worry about in the 0-7s region of the graph. You can check your answer by counting squares for a graph this simple.

Remember that the integral just gives you the velocity change over the time period, which isn't quite what you're asked for.

how would i isolate
 
  • #6
Find a(t) and do antiderivative to find v(t).
 
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  • #7
still can't get it.
i tried calculating the area underneath both of those and got 10 m/s, but that wasn't the velocity of the acceleration graph... I am not sure what to do
 
  • #8
as much as i hate to ask for a straight answer (with a minor explanation) from you guys, i think it would be beneficial because i simply can't get it and I've inputted about 12 answers into this program
 
  • #9
Complete answers are forbidden by forum rules.

The area under the graph can be obtained by counting squares between the graph and the x-axis, remembering that the area is negative when the graph is below the axis. Each square is 1s wide and 10ms-2 high. To start you off, the area between 5s and 7s is -20ms-1. You can work out the area between 0s and 5s.

Do remember that the result is the velocity gain over the period, not the final velocity.
 
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FAQ: Finding Velocity from Acceleration Graph

What is velocity at t=7?

The velocity at t=7 refers to the speed and direction of an object at a specific time point, which in this case is 7 seconds. It is a measure of how fast the object is moving and in which direction it is moving.

How is velocity at t=7 calculated?

To calculate velocity at t=7, you need to know the displacement (change in position) of the object at t=7 and the time it took to reach that displacement. Velocity is calculated by dividing the displacement by the time taken, so the equation would be: velocity = displacement / time.

Why is finding velocity at t=7 important?

Finding velocity at t=7 is important because it provides insight into the motion of an object at a specific time. It can help determine the speed, direction, and acceleration of an object, which can be useful in many scientific fields such as physics, engineering, and astronomy.

What factors can affect velocity at t=7?

There are several factors that can affect the velocity of an object at t=7. These include external forces such as gravity, friction, and air resistance, as well as the object's mass and initial velocity. Any changes in these factors can impact the object's velocity at t=7.

Can velocity at t=7 be negative?

Yes, velocity at t=7 can be negative. This means that the object is moving in the opposite direction of its initial velocity. For example, if an object is initially moving to the right with a velocity of 10 m/s and at t=7 it is moving to the left with a velocity of -5 m/s, then its velocity at t=7 is negative.

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