Solving Free-Fall Kinematics: Find Acceleration from Initial Speed

In summary, the ball is thrown downward with an initial speed of 20 m/s on Earth. The acceleration of the ball can be found by using the equation vf=a(change in time)t + vi, with acceleration being measured in m/s^2. Additionally, since the ball is being thrown downwards and the force is acting downwards, there will be a vertical acceleration but no horizontal acceleration. This vertical acceleration is due to gravity, which is a constant for all objects in freefall.
  • #1
sarah_615
1
0

Homework Statement


A ball is thrown downward with an initial speed if 20 m/s on earth.
What is the acceleration of the ball?


Homework Equations


vf=a (change in time)t + vi


The Attempt at a Solution


well you have to find the velocity of then find acceleration. and acceleration is m/s^2
on my notes it says that the horizontal acceleration is 0 m/s/s since its being thrown downward, (in a horizontal direction) that's what is getting me confused.
 
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  • #2


Acceleration is a vector quantity - i.e. it has a direction. So as the ball is being thrown downwards and the force (do you know what it is) is also acting downwards there isn't going to be a horizontal acceleration but there will be a vertical one :)

Does this help?
 
Last edited:
  • #3


sarah_615 said:
What is the acceleration of the ball?
Hint: No calculation needed here. The acceleration of any object in freefall is the same. (What's the acceleration due to gravity?)
 

1. What is free-fall kinematics?

Free-fall kinematics refers to the study of the motion of an object under the influence of gravity alone, with no other forces acting on it.

2. How do you find the acceleration of an object in free-fall kinematics?

To find the acceleration of an object in free-fall kinematics, you can use the equation a = g, where g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2 on Earth). This equation assumes that there are no other forces acting on the object.

3. What is the equation for solving free-fall kinematics for acceleration?

The equation for solving free-fall kinematics for acceleration is a = (vf - vi)/t, where a is acceleration, vf is final velocity, vi is initial velocity, and t is time.

4. How do you find the initial speed of an object in free-fall kinematics?

To find the initial speed of an object in free-fall kinematics, you can use the equation vi = vf - at, where vi is initial velocity, vf is final velocity, a is acceleration, and t is time.

5. What are some real-world applications of solving free-fall kinematics?

Solving free-fall kinematics can be applied to various real-world scenarios, such as calculating the speed and acceleration of a skydiver, determining the trajectory of a projectile, or understanding the motion of objects falling from a height. It is also important in engineering and physics to design and analyze structures and machines that are subject to gravity.

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