38. In an experiment, a student observes an object as it travels in one direction along a straight path. Which TWO of the following measurements does the student need to calculate the average speed of the object?
Answer: B,C
The student needs to measure the distance traveled and the elapsed time to calculate the average speed of the object.
To determine the average speed of an object, it is essential to know how far it has traveled (distance) and how long it took to travel that distance (elapsed time). These two measurements allow for the calculation of average speed using the formula: speed = distance/time.
A) The object's mass
The object's mass is not relevant to calculating average speed. While mass can affect other aspects of motion, such as acceleration or force, it does not impact the measurement of speed directly.
B) The distance traveled
The distance traveled is a crucial measurement for calculating average speed. Knowing how far the object has moved allows the student to apply the speed formula effectively.
C) The elapsed time
Elapsed time is another essential measurement for calculating average speed. It provides the necessary time component in the speed formula, enabling the student to determine how quickly the object is moving over the distance traveled.
D) The environmental temperature
The environmental temperature does not affect the calculation of average speed. While temperature can influence the behavior of materials and fluids in motion, it is not a necessary measurement for determining speed.
Conclusion
The correct measurements for calculating average speed are the distance traveled and the elapsed time. All other options, such as mass and temperature, do not contribute to the calculation of speed, making B and C the definitive choices necessary for the student's experiment.