they say it is the speed of an object at one moment but how can you measure speed without incorperating an amount of time?
2007-09-13 14:39:52 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
i can't read that.
2007-09-13 14:47:47 · update #1
You are correct, one cannot measure speed (or anything else for that matter) without setting aside a finite amount of time for the measurement. Quantum mechanic sets strict limits on how accurately speed can be determined if the time interval is reduced to a given period. Instantaneous speed is a purely theoretical classical concept pertaining to a mathematical idealization which approximates the behavior of macroscopic objects. It's the theoretical magnitude of the displacement of an object divided by an infinitesimally short time interval.
2007-09-13 15:56:34 · answer #1 · answered by Dr. R 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
By using mathematics. If you can graphically represent changes in acelleration, decelleration, steady velocity etc. you can apply calculus to the equation to get acelleration or velocity at any point in time
2007-09-13 14:48:25 · answer #2 · answered by SteveA8 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Derivatives =)
You can't type it out nicely on Yahoo! Answers so I looked around for an image of the formula:
http://www.gamedev.net/reference/articles/physics/form104.gif
2007-09-13 14:45:49 · answer #3 · answered by Miri 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it is the midpoint speed of intial velocity and final velocity
2007-09-13 14:47:25 · answer #4 · answered by killaWill 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋