How Do You Calculate the Speed and Velocity of a Clock's Second Hand?

In summary: Furthermore, what is the velocity at this position?In summary, the sweep second hand of a clock with a length of 2.0 cm will sweep out a circle of radius 2 cm in one minute, resulting in a speed of the motion of the tip of the hand and a velocity at the 6 o'clock position.
  • #1
phizics09
38
1

Homework Statement



The sweep second hand of a clock has a length of 2.0 cm.

Homework Equations



a) What is the speed of the sweep second hand tip at the 6 o'clock position?
b) What is the velocity of the sweep second hand tip at the 6 o'clock position?

The Attempt at a Solution


I don't really understand how to use 2.0 cm to solve the problem. Do you figure out the length it takes for the second hand to reach 6 o'clock and divided 2.0 cm by the answer?
 
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  • #2
phizics09 said:

Homework Statement



The sweep second hand of a clock has a length of 2.0 cm.

Homework Equations



a) What is the speed of the sweep second hand tip at the 6 o'clock position?
b) What is the velocity of the sweep second hand tip at the 6 o'clock position?

The Attempt at a Solution


I don't really understand how to use 2.0 cm to solve the problem. Do you figure out the length it takes for the second hand to reach 6 o'clock and divided 2.0 cm by the answer?

In one minute, the tip of the hand will sweep out a circle of radius 2 cm. What is the circumference of that circle? What speed in m/s does this motion thus represent?
 

Related to How Do You Calculate the Speed and Velocity of a Clock's Second Hand?

1. What is the difference between speed and velocity of a clock?

Speed is a measure of how fast an object is moving, while velocity is a measure of both the speed and direction of an object's motion. In the case of a clock, the speed would refer to the rate at which the hands are moving, while the velocity would also take into account the direction in which the hands are moving (e.g. clockwise or counterclockwise).

2. How is the speed of a clock calculated?

The speed of a clock can be calculated by dividing the distance traveled by the clock's hands (in meters) by the time it takes for the hands to complete one full rotation (in seconds). This will give the speed of the clock in meters per second.

3. Can the speed of a clock vary?

Yes, the speed of a clock can vary depending on external factors such as friction or changes in the mechanism of the clock. For example, a clock may start to slow down if the gears become worn or if there is an increase in friction between the hands and the clock face.

4. What is the relationship between speed and time in a clock?

The speed of a clock is directly related to the time it takes for the hands to complete one full rotation. As the speed of the clock increases, the time it takes for the hands to complete one rotation decreases. Conversely, as the speed of the clock decreases, the time for one rotation increases.

5. Why is it important to understand the speed and velocity of a clock?

Understanding the speed and velocity of a clock can provide valuable information about its performance and accuracy. By measuring the speed and velocity, scientists can identify any issues with the clock's mechanisms and make necessary adjustments to ensure its accuracy. Additionally, knowledge of a clock's speed and velocity can aid in the development of more precise timekeeping devices.

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