Chapter 2: Problem 20
An object drops from a cliff that is 150 m high. The distance, \(d\), in metres, that the object has dropped at \(t\) seconds in modelled by \(d(t)=4.9 t^{2}\). a. Find the average rate of change of distance with respect to time from 2 s to 5 s. b. Find the instantaneous rate of change of distance with respect to time at \(4 \mathrm{s}\). c. Find the rate at which the object hits the ground to the nearest tenth.
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Calculate Distance at t = 2s and t = 5s
Compute Average Rate of Change
Calculate Instantaneous Rate of Change at t = 4s
Determine Final Time (When Object Hits the Ground)
Compute Rate of Change at t = 5.53s
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Understanding Average Rate of Change
It tells us how fast something was going over a period.
- Calculate the position at two different times.
- Subtract one position from the other to find the total change in position.
- Divide by the time elapsed between these two points to find the average speed.
Grasping Instantaneous Rate of Change
Mathematicians use derivatives to determine this rate.
- This involves differentiating the function representing distance with respect to time.
- Evaluate this derivative at the specific time you're interested in.
The Role of Derivatives
Calculus uses this tool to understand changes, especially in motion.
- Derivatives can be seen as a limit of the average rate of change over smaller and smaller intervals.
- The process of finding a derivative is called differentiation.
Exploring Motion Equations
They share vital details about the object's position, velocity, and acceleration.
- The function \(d(t) = 4.9t^2\) models how far the object has fallen with respect to time.
- Velocity, or speed, is found using the derivative of the distance equation.
Enhancing Problem-Solving Steps
This structured approach makes complex problems more approachable and understandable.
- Identify what is being asked - both rates, average and instantaneous, and when the object hits the ground.
- Compute required values step-by-step, using known equations and differentiating where needed.
- Verify and organize your calculations for clarity.