Question

What is the instantaneous velocity at 4 s?
A) 0 m/s
B) 2 m/s
C) 4 m/s
D) 6 m/s

Answer 1

The instantaneous velocity at 4 s is 4 m/s. Therefore, the correct option is C.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine the instantaneous velocity at 4 seconds, we need to refer to the velocity-time graph or the derivative of the position-time graph. If the velocity is constant, the instantaneous velocity remains the same throughout. However, if the velocity is changing, we must consider the slope of the tangent to the position-time curve at that specific point.

If the graph is not provided, it's crucial to know the nature of the motion. If the motion is uniformly accelerated or decelerated, we can use the kinematic equation:

`\[ v = u + at \]`

where:

- v is the final velocity,

- u is the initial velocity,

- a is the acceleration,

- t is the time.

If the motion starts from rest
`(\( u = 0 \))`, the equation simplifies to:

`\[ v = at \]`

Substitute the given values:

`\[ v = (1 \, \text{m/s}^2) * (4 \, \text{s}) = 4 \, \text{m/s} \]`

Therefore, the instantaneous velocity at 4 s is 4 m/s. This value corresponds to the rate of change of position at that specific moment in time.

Therefore, the correct option is C.