Understanding Average Velocity
Average velocity isn't simply the average of the two velocities. It takes into account the time spent traveling at each velocity. Think of it as the constant velocity that would cover the same total distance in the same total time.
Formula
The average velocity (v_avg) is calculated as follows:
```
v_avg = (v1 * t1 + v2 * t2) / (t1 + t2)
```
Explanation
* v1 * t1: This calculates the distance traveled during the first time interval.
* v2 * t2: This calculates the distance traveled during the second time interval.
* (v1 * t1 + v2 * t2): This is the total distance traveled.
* (t1 + t2): This is the total time taken.
Example
Let's say:
* v1 = 10 m/s
* t1 = 5 seconds
* v2 = 20 m/s
* t2 = 3 seconds
Using the formula:
```
v_avg = (10 * 5 + 20 * 3) / (5 + 3)
v_avg = (50 + 60) / 8
v_avg = 110 / 8
v_avg = 13.75 m/s
```
Therefore, the average velocity of the body is 13.75 m/s.
