Gary runs at a speed of 2 meters per second for 2 minutes, then stops for a minute and runs again for 2 minutes at the same speed.
What is the average speed?
We have hundreds of course questions with personalized recommendations + Account 100% premium
Gary runs at a speed of 2 meters per second for 2 minutes, then stops for a minute and runs again for 2 minutes at the same speed.
What is the average speed?
Let's begin solving this problem by following the outlined steps:
Step 1: Convert the time to seconds.
Running time for each interval = .
Rest time = .
Step 2: Calculate the distance covered during each running interval.
Distance for the first interval, .
Distance for the second interval, .
Step 3: Determine the total distance and total time.
Total distance, .
Total time, .
Step 4: Calculate the average speed.
Thus, Gary's average speed is meters per second.
meters per second
What is the average speed according to the data?
Average speed measures the total journey time, not just moving time! It's like asking "How fast did Gary travel from start to finish?" - the rest period is part of that total journey time.
No! Gary's running speed is 2 m/s, but his average speed is 1.6 m/s because he spent time resting. Average speed is always total distance ÷ total time.
The method stays the same! Calculate distance for each interval separately, then use .
Multiply by 60! So 2 minutes = 2 × 60 = 120 seconds. Always work in the same units throughout your calculation.
No, never! If you include any rest periods, average speed will always be less than or equal to the actual running speed. If you get a higher number, check your calculation!
Get unlimited access to all 18 Traffic Flow Problems questions, detailed video solutions, and personalized progress tracking.
Unlimited Video Solutions
Step-by-step explanations for every problem
Progress Analytics
Track your mastery across all topics
Ad-Free Learning
Focus on math without distractions
No credit card required • Cancel anytime