Question
Physics Question on distance and displacement
A particle moves along a straight line OX. At a time t (in second) the distance x (in metre) of the particle from O is given by x=40+12t−t3 How long would the particle travel before coming to rest?
A
24 m
B
40 m
C
56 m
D
16 m
Answer
56 m
Explanation
Solution
Key Idea Speed is rate of change of distance. Distance travelled by the particle is
x=40+12t−t3
We know that, speed is rate of change of distance
ie,v=dtdx
∴v=dtd(40+12t−t3)
=0+12−3t2
but final velocity v=0
∴12−3t2=0
or t2=312=4
or t=2s
Hence, distance travelled by the particle before coming to rest is given by
x=40+12(2)−(2)3
=40+24−8=64−8
=56m