A train is moving along the \( x \)-axis and has a velocity, \( v_{x}=10 \mathrm{~m} / \mathrm{s} \). It it experiences an accelaration, \( a_{2}=-20-1 s^{2} \) for 4.0 s , which of the following statements best describes what happens to the train during this period? A. Me spect ofthe tr in increases. B. The speed of the train decreases. C. The train moves at the constant speed. Q. The train reverses direction. E. Mot enough information to answer
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During the 4-second period, the train is experiencing a deceleration due to the negative acceleration \( a_{2} \) of \(-20 \, m/s^2\). This means the speed of the train is indeed decreasing, as indicated by option B. With the initial speed set at \( 10 \, m/s \) and a significant negative acceleration, it's certain that the train will not only slow down but could also stop and potentially reverse direction depending on the total distance covered. Since the train starts with a speed of \( 10 \, m/s \) and accelerates negatively for 4 seconds, the resulting behavior can be illustrated with some simple equations of motion, leaving no doubt about the correctness of option B. Think of it like speeding in a car—hard braking will definitely slow you down!