Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Kinematics of motion in a straight line

Kinematics of motion in a straight line — practice question

A tractor moves along a straight path from point $A$ to point $B$. At time $t\,\text{s}$ after departing from $A$, its velocity is $v\,\text{m s}^{-1}$.
(i(a))[2]

The diagram gives an approximate velocity-time graph for the tractor's motion. It is formed from two straight-line sections. Use the graph to estimate the distance $AB$.

(i(b))[2]

Calculate the tractor's acceleration for $0 \le t \le 400$ and for $400 \le t \le 800$.

(ii(a))[3]

The tractor's actual velocity is given by $v = 0.04t - 0.00005t^{2}$ for $0 \le t \le 800$. Determine the values of $t$ for which the tractor's actual acceleration agrees with the approximate velocity-time graph from part (i).

(ii(b))[2]

For $0 \le t \le 400$, let the approximate tractor velocity from part (i) be $v_1\,\text{m s}^{-1}$. Write $v_1$ as a function of $t$ and hence show that $v_1 - v = 0.00005(t - 200)^2 - 1$.

(ii(c))[2]

Conclude that $-1 \le v_1 - v \le 1$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Uses area beneath speed-time graph $2\times\tfrac12(1+9)400$

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