Kinematic Equations

  • $V = \frac{\Delta \text{position}}{\Delta \text{time}}$1)
  • $V_f = V_i + at$
  • $V_f^2 = V_i^2+2aD$
  • $D = V_it + \frac{1}{2}at^2$
  • $D = V_ft - \frac{1}{2}at^2$
  • $D = \frac{1}{2}(V_f + V_i)t$

Take note of the missing variable for each equation, these don't have to be memorized since they are clearly derived from one root function.

Definitions

Vector

A vector quantity includes direction within its value. Acceleration and Velocity are vector quantities.

Scalar

Scalar quantities don't, speed is the obvious one.

Free Fall

When an object is in free fall, gravity is the only force affecting the object. Useful for narrowing forces for calculation.

Example

A car starts at rest and accelerates at 3 m/s^2 for 8 seconds. How far did it go?

Variables

  • $V_i = 0$ m/s
  • $a = 3$ m/s^2
  • $t = 8$ seconds

Equation(s)

  • $D = V_it + \frac{1}{2}at^2$
  1. $D = 0(8) + \frac{1}{2}3(8^2)$
  2. $D = 0 + 96$
  3. $\boxed{D = 96 m}$
  • $V_f = V_i + at$
  1. $V_f = 0 + 3(8)$
  2. $\boxed{V_f = 24 m/s}$
1)
displacement is the change in position, and velocity is that over time

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