Gwen runs in a straight line with an average velocity of \( \vec{v}_{1}=(6.8 \mathrm{~m} / \mathrm{s}) \hat{i} \) for \( t_{1}=7.7 \mathrm{~min} \), and then with an average velocity of \( \vec{v}_{2}=(-7.1 \mathrm{~m} / \mathrm{s}) \hat{i} \) for \( t_{2}=3.8 \mathrm{~min} \). Providing the answers in the correct numbers of significant Figures: a) Find the displacement during \( t_{1} \) ? \( \vec{d}_{1}=9 \quad \hat{i} \) b) Find the overall displacement? \( \vec{d}=\square \hat{i} \) c) Find the overall average velocity? \( \vec{v}=2.2 \mathrm{~m} \) \( i \)
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To find the displacement during \( t_{1} \), we use the formula \(\vec{d}_{1} = \vec{v}_{1} \cdot t_{1}\). Converting the time from minutes to seconds gives us \( t_{1} = 7.7 \times 60 = 462 \, \text{s} \). Plugging in the values: \[ \vec{d}_{1} = (6.8 \, \mathrm{m/s}) \cdot (462 \, \mathrm{s}) = 3141.6 \, \mathrm{m} \approx 3.1 \times 10^3 \, \hat{i} \] For the overall displacement, we first calculate the displacement during \( t_{2} \): \[ t_{2} = 3.8 \times 60 = 228 \, \text{s} \] \[ \vec{d}_{2} = \vec{v}_{2} \cdot t_{2} = (-7.1 \, \mathrm{m/s}) \cdot (228 \, \mathrm{s}) = -1611.6 \, \mathrm{m} \approx -1.6 \times 10^3 \, \hat{i} \] The overall displacement is: \[ \vec{d} = \vec{d}_{1} + \vec{d}_{2} = 3141.6 \, \hat{i} - 1611.6 \, \hat{i} = 1530 \, \hat{i} \approx 1.5 \times 10^3 \, \hat{i} \] Finally, we find the overall average velocity. The total time \( t = t_{1} + t_{2} = 462 \, \mathrm{s} + 228 \, \mathrm{s} = 690 \, \mathrm{s} \): \[ \vec{v} = \frac{\vec{d}}{t} = \frac{1530 \, \hat{i}}{690 \, \mathrm{s}} = 2.217 \, \mathrm{m/s} \approx 2.2 \, \mathrm{m/s} \hat{i} \] Thus: a) \( \vec{d}_{1} = 3.1 \times 10^3 \hat{i} \) b) \( \vec{d} = 1.5 \times 10^3 \hat{i} \) c) \( \vec{v} = 2.2 \, \mathrm{m/s} \hat{i} \) Now let’s add some extra context! Gwen's running adventure wonderfully illustrates the principles of kinematics in physics. Running against resistance (like wind or fatigue) showcases how average velocity isn’t always what you might feel during a sprint. For practical applications, this scenario is relevant in sports science where understanding displacement and velocity can help athletes strategize their performance. Knowing how to balance speed over time can affect results in races or other competitions.