Final answer:
The average velocity of the bungee jumper in free fall is -9.8 m/s.
Step-by-step explanation:
The average velocity of the bungee jumper in free fall can be calculated using the formula:
average velocity (v) = displacement (Δx) / time (Δt)
Since the bungee jumper falls for 2 seconds before the bungee cord starts to slow her down, and the positive direction is downward, the displacement (Δx) can be calculated as:
displacement (Δx) = initial velocity (vi) * time (Δt) + 0.5 * acceleration (a) * time (Δt)^2
Given that the initial velocity (vi) is 0 m/s and the acceleration (a) due to gravity is -9.8 m/s², the displacement (Δx) can be calculated:
displacement (Δx) = 0 * 2 + 0.5 * -9.8 * 2^2 = -19.6 m
Therefore, the average velocity in free fall is:
average velocity (v) = -19.6 m / 2 s = -9.8 m/s