Question

A point starts with the velocity 10 cm/sec and moves along a straight line with uniform acceleration 5cm/sec^2. How much time it takes to describe 80 cm?

(a) 4 seconds

(b) 2 seconds

(c) 8 seconds

(d) 6 seconds

I had been asked this question in an interview for job.

This interesting question is from Calculus Application topic in portion Application of Calculus of Mathematics – Class 12

Answer 1

Right option is (a) 4 seconds

To elaborate: Let us assume that the point takes t seconds to describe a distance 80 cm.

Then using the formula s = ut +1/2(ft^2) we get,

80 = 10*t + 1/2(5)(t^2)

Or 5t^2 + 20t – 160 = 0

Or t^2 + 4t – 32 = 0

Or (t – 4)(t + 8) = 0

Or t = 4 Or -8

Clearly, t = -8 is inadmissible.

Therefore, the required time = 4 seconds.