Answer:
The average velocity of the ball as it falls and hits the ground is -6.25 meters per second. The negative sign indicates that the velocity is directed downward.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the average velocity of the ball as it falls from rest and hits the ground, you can use the following formula:
Average Velocity (Vavg) = Total Displacement / Total Time
In this case, the ball is dropped from a height of 2.5 meters, so its initial position is 2.5 meters above the ground. When it hits the ground, its final position is at ground level, which is 0 meters. The total displacement is therefore:
Total Displacement = Final Position - Initial Position
Total Displacement = 0 m - 2.5 m
Total Displacement = -2.5 meters
The total time it takes for the ball to hit the ground is given as 0.4 seconds.
Now, plug these values into the formula for average velocity:
Average Velocity (Vavg) = (-2.5 meters) / (0.4 seconds)
Average Velocity (Vavg) = -6.25 m/s
So, the average velocity of the ball as it falls and hits the ground is -6.25 meters per second. The negative sign indicates that the velocity is directed downward.