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Plotting Derivatives
With these short activities, were able to better demonstrate the graphical relationships between x(t) and its 1st and 2nd derivatives, v(t) and a(t), By looking at the overall shape of one of these graphs, we should be able to tell quite a lot about the others. Using the Vernier LabQuest, a cart and a track, we will model 1 directional motion to look at the relations of some of these functions -To model a CONSTANT VELOCITY, give your cart an initial push and allow it to roll freely. -To model a CONSTANT ACCELERATION, incline your track by (some number) of degrees, and allow the cart to roll freely.

Part 1: Starting Simple

From the shape of this x vs. t graph, what would the expected shape of the v vs t graph be? a vs t? Sketch them below

Model a similar motion using your track/cart and the Vernier LabQuest. Using an appropriate fit, determine the equation associated with this motion. x(t)= Applying your knowledge of derivatives, take the x(t) equation you obtained and calculate v(t) and a(t), and plot them. Do the shapes of the graphs match your predictions? v(t)= a(t)=

Part 2: Biker on a Hill A biker is approaching a linear hill. In an effort to use as little effort as possible, he doesnt pedal up the hill, instead relying on the bicycles momentum to carry him up the hill. Partway up the hill the biker slows to a momentary stop, and then slides backwards several meters before stopping himself. Sketch a graph of the Bikers height above ground level that corresponds to this situation

From the shape of the graph you sketched, what would the expected shape of the v vs t graph be? What would the expected shape of the a vs t graph be?

Model a similar motion using your track/cart and the LabQuest Using an appropriate fit, determine the equation associated with this motion. x(t)= Applying your knowledge of derivatives, take the x(t) equation you obtained and calculate v(t) and a(t), and plot them. Do the shapes of the graphs match your predictions? v(t)= a(t)=

Part 3: A more involved Velocity Below are some of v vs t graph. For each graph, 1) Model the motion a cart would take if it had such a velocity as best as you are able. 2) Sketch a quick graph of position vs. time supporting your model. 3) Using your knowledge of derivatives and slopes, determine the shape of the acceleration vs. time graph (some graphs are not differentiable in all places)

Part 4. A walk in the Park. One day while walking through a park, your friend decides to measure their velocity along a single direction (Lets call it the x-direction) for their walk. Looking at the data below, at the end of their walk, was your friend in the positive direction from their initial position, or negative? How do you know?

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