Racing Cars {Functions}
Let's Get Ready to Race!
Hold down "Ctrl" and "-" if the applet is too large for your browser. Select "Position" for a race of function values or "Displacement" to ensure a all cars start evenly. Next, select the number of cars to race (1-4), then starting and ending x-values. You may type in the function of your choice by clicking on the function text and editing. Click go to start the race, and use the speed slider to adjust the speed. The current x value (simulation of time) is given above the right side of the track. The position of the car depends on its corresponding function values. click on the Orange button ("f^n(x)") to cycle through various text views of the functions and their derivatives.
Which car will win?
Which car dominates at the beginning of the race and why?
When is the yellow car ahead?
When does the blue car go ahead?
Which car wins the race? Why do you think it wins the race?
Which car is going fastest at x =3?
Which car is going fastest at x= 7?
Which car is going fastest at x = 10?
Which car is accelerating the most at x =3?
Which car is accelerating the most at x= 7?
Which car is accelerating the most at x = 10?