Average velocity

Question

An object with zero initial velocity accelerates at a constant rate of 7 m/s2. Find its average velocity during the first 3 seconds.

(Use symbolic notation and fractions where needed.)

average velocity:

Answer 1

Hi Maria,

Average velocity can be computed by determining the total distance traveled and dividing it by the total time traveled.

If you have a constant acceleration, the distance traveled can be calculated from this formula:

x = v_o*t 1/2*a*t²

You're given an initial velocity of 0, an acceleration of 7, and time span of 3 seconds.

x = 0*3 + 1/2 * 7 * (3)²

x = 63/2

So you traveled 63/2 meters in 3 seconds. Your average velocity must have therefore been:

v = x/t = (63/2)/3 = 63/6 (10.5) meters per second.