College Physics II – Mechanics, Sound, Oscillations, and Waves
Definition
$t_i$ represents the initial time in the context of position, displacement, and average velocity. It is the starting point from which changes in position and velocity are measured over a time interval.
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$t_i$ represents the time at the start of a time interval, which is used to calculate changes in position and velocity.
The time interval between $t_i$ and the final time $t_f$ is denoted as $ extbackslashDelta t = t_f - t_i$.
Displacement is calculated as the change in position between the initial time $t_i$ and the final time $t_f$.
Average velocity is defined as the displacement divided by the time interval $ extbackslashDelta t = t_f - t_i$.
The value of $t_i$ is crucial for determining the initial conditions and reference point for analyzing motion and calculating kinematic quantities.
Review Questions
Explain the role of $t_i$ in the calculation of displacement.
The initial time $t_i$ is the starting point for measuring displacement. Displacement is defined as the change in position between the initial time $t_i$ and the final time $t_f$. By knowing the position at $t_i$ and the position at $t_f$, the displacement can be calculated as the difference between the final and initial positions. The value of $t_i$ establishes the reference point from which the change in position is measured.
Describe how $t_i$ is used in the calculation of average velocity.
Average velocity is calculated as the displacement divided by the time interval $ extbackslashDelta t = t_f - t_i$. The initial time $t_i$ is the starting point of the time interval over which the displacement occurs. By knowing the values of the initial time $t_i$ and the final time $t_f$, the time interval $ extbackslashDelta t$ can be determined, which is then used in the formula for average velocity. The value of $t_i$ is essential for defining the time reference and calculating the appropriate time interval for the velocity calculation.
Analyze the importance of $t_i$ in the context of kinematic analysis.
In the study of kinematics, $t_i$ represents the initial time reference point. It is crucial for establishing the starting conditions and frame of reference for analyzing the motion of an object. By knowing the value of $t_i$, you can determine the initial position, displacement, and velocity, which are fundamental to understanding and predicting the object's subsequent motion. The value of $t_i$ allows you to track changes in position, velocity, and acceleration over time, enabling a comprehensive kinematic analysis of the object's movement.
Related terms
Position: The location of an object in space, often described by coordinates such as $x$, $y$, and $z$.
Displacement: The change in position of an object over a given time interval, defined as the final position minus the initial position.
Average Velocity: The ratio of displacement to the time interval over which the displacement occurred, calculated as the change in position divided by the change in time.