Physics Question: Suppose we watch the bee during the time interval from 10 s to 100 s and determine that x(t) = 10.0 m + (1.0 m/s)t, y(t) = 16 m + (4.0 m*s)t^(-1), and z(t) = 6.0 m.

Question

Suppose we watch the bee during the time interval from 10 s to 100 s and determine that x(t) = 10.0 m + (1.0 m/s)t, y(t) = 16 m + (4.0 m*s)t^(-1), and z(t) = 6.0 m.

y(t) = 16 m + (4.0 m*s)t^(-1)

It then takes on the derivative of each.

My question is in regards to the units of "y(t)." I can't understand as to how you can have m*s and t^(-1). How is this possible? If I have to graph it, how would I go about doing that? How do I justify these units? Can anyone care to explain?

Answer 1

Notice that the units of the "4.0" is m•s? Dividing by time (in seconds) results in meters.

If you are trying to think of real world situations when a unit of m•s would occur, I think you are trying too hard. Just think of it as a constant with those units. The Gravitation constant "G" is 6.67 x 10^-11 m³kg^-1s^-2 and you don't question the units in that constant even though it doesn't represent a physical thing.