Mathematics

Problem

Four lab groups each choose a different time interval to estimate an object’s velocity at

t=5.0\,\text{s}

from position data collected during the motion. Group I:

\;4.0\,\text{s}

6.0\,\text{s}

Group II:

\;4.5\,\text{s}

5.5\,\text{s}

Group III:

\;4.9\,\text{s}

5.1\,\text{s}

Group IV:

\;5.0\,\text{s}

5.2\,\text{s}

Assuming the object is accelerating, which group’s choice is expected to yield the smallest error in estimating the velocity at

5.0\,\text{s}

? a) Group I b) Group III c) Group II d) Group IV