Find the average speed of the ball

In summary, the height of a baseball thrown straight upward after t seconds is given by the function h(t)=36t - 16t^2. To find the average speed of the ball, we use the formula h_ave = (h(b)-h(a))/(b-a). For the given intervals of a) 0≤ t ≤1, b) .5≤ t ≤ 1, and c) .9 ≤ t ≤1, the average speeds are 20 ft/sec, 12 ft/sec, and 5.6 ft/sec, respectively. To estimate the speed of the ball after 1 second, we plug in t=1 into the function and get a speed of 20 ft/sec.
  • #1
coolbeans33
23
0
the height in ft of a baseball, t seconds after being thrown straight upward, is given by h(t)=36t - 16t^2

1) find the average speed of the ball for
a) 0≤ t ≤1
b) .5≤ t ≤ 1
c) .9 ≤ t ≤1

the answer to a) is 20 ft/sec, which is what you get if you plug 1 into the equation. the answer to b) is 12 ft/sec, and c) is 5.6 ft/sec.

how the heck did they get these answers?? I just don't get it. please explain how to do this step by step

also it asks to estimate the speed of the ball after 1 second.
 
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  • #2
Re: find the average speed of the ball

coolbeans33 said:
the height in ft of a baseball, t seconds after being thrown straight upward, is given by h(t)=36t - 16t^2

1) find the average speed of the ball for
a) 0≤ t ≤1
b) .5≤ t ≤ 1
c) .9 ≤ t ≤1

the answer to a) is 20 ft/sec, which is what you get if you plug 1 into the equation. the answer to b) is 12 ft/sec, and c) is 5.6 ft/sec.

how the heck did they get these answers?? I just don't get it. please explain how to do this step by step

also it asks to estimate the speed of the ball after 1 second.

The average velocity of a function $h(t)$ over the interval $[a,b]$ (i.e. $a\leq t\leq b$) is given by the formula

\[h_{\text{ave}}=\frac{h(b)-h(a)}{b-a}.\]

Do you think you can do each part knowing this formula now?

I hope this helps!
 

Related to Find the average speed of the ball

1. How is average speed of a ball calculated?

The average speed of a ball can be calculated by dividing the total distance traveled by the ball by the total time it took to travel that distance.

2. What is the unit of measurement for average speed?

The unit of measurement for average speed is typically meters per second (m/s) or miles per hour (mph), depending on the system of measurement being used.

3. Can the average speed of a ball change during its motion?

Yes, the average speed of a ball can change during its motion. This can happen if the ball speeds up or slows down at different points during its travel.

4. What factors can affect the average speed of a ball?

The average speed of a ball can be affected by various factors such as air resistance, friction, and the force applied to the ball.

5. How can the average speed of a ball be used in scientific research?

The average speed of a ball can be used in scientific research to analyze the motion and behavior of the ball, to compare the performance of different objects, and to understand the principles of physics involved in the ball's movement.

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