Physics: 1d Motion-Instantaneous Velocity vs Average.

In summary, to create a table with time and instantaneous velocity, you can estimate the instantaneous velocity by using the average velocity at the center of each averaging period or by taking the midpoint between each pair of average velocities. However, this method is approximate and may require making assumptions about the smoothness of the data or fitting it to a model function.
  • #1
Gaebril
3
0
Trying to create a table with time and instantaneous velocity. (the tables- http://i.imgur.com/8DZsu.png ) How do I go from using the Average Velocity to the Instantaneous Velocity?

Instantaneous Velocity is the V_avg at t_1 + (delta-t)/2 how do I use this with my data.
 
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  • #2
You have to make some assumptions about the smoothness of the data, because you lose some information from only having sampled data. See if you can fit the data to a particular model function. If you can't, then you can just estimate the instantaneous velocity = the average velocity at the center of each averaging period. The centers of your averaging periods are between each sample point. If you want the instantaneous velocity at your sample points, then you can take the midpoint between each pair of average velocities. Of course, it's all very approximate.
 
  • #3
So between t1=.05 and t2=.10 you take the mid point of the average velocities which is 30 + 35 = 65/2 = 32.5cm/s? Thus at t2 instantaneous velocity = 32.5cm/s?
 

Related to Physics: 1d Motion-Instantaneous Velocity vs Average.

1. What is the difference between instantaneous velocity and average velocity in 1-dimensional motion?

Instantaneous velocity refers to the velocity of an object at a specific moment in time, while average velocity is the overall velocity of an object over a certain period of time.

2. How do you calculate instantaneous velocity in 1-dimensional motion?

Instantaneous velocity can be calculated by finding the slope of the tangent line to the position-time graph at a specific point. It can also be calculated by taking the derivative of the position function with respect to time.

3. How is average velocity calculated in 1-dimensional motion?

Average velocity is calculated by dividing the total displacement of an object by the total time taken to travel that distance. It can also be found by taking the slope of the secant line between two points on the position-time graph.

4. What factors can affect an object's instantaneous and average velocity in 1-dimensional motion?

The object's initial velocity, acceleration, and any external forces acting on the object can affect both its instantaneous and average velocity in 1-dimensional motion.

5. Can instantaneous velocity ever be equal to average velocity in 1-dimensional motion?

Yes, if the object's velocity remains constant throughout its motion, then its instantaneous velocity will always be equal to its average velocity.

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