Kinematic Equations - Manipulating them.

In summary, the conversation is about a student needing help understanding how to manipulate the kinematic equation to find various variables. It is suggested to use simple algebra to solve for the desired variables.
  • #1
Huynher
1
0
Hi, I'm new to this forum.

I need major help on my homework. So the kinematic equation,
Vf² = Vi² + 2ad

I need to figure out how to manipulate it so I can find Vf(final velocity), Vi(initial velocity), a(acceleration), and d(displacement).

I figured to find Vf, you just square root it, but I can't figure out how to get everything else.

Vi = ?
a = ?
d = ?

Any help will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
It's simple algebra, really...

Vf2 = Vi2 + 2ad
Vf2 - 2ad = Vi2
Then square root both sides of the equation, and voila! I'm sure you can figure out a and d for yourself...
 
  • #3


Hello, welcome to the forum! It's great that you're seeking help with your homework.

The kinematic equation you mentioned is a useful tool for solving problems involving motion. To manipulate it, you can rearrange the equation to isolate the variable you are looking for. For example, if you want to find the final velocity (Vf), you would rearrange the equation to be:

Vf = √(Vi² + 2ad)

This means that to find the final velocity, you need to take the square root of the sum of the initial velocity squared and two times the acceleration multiplied by the displacement.

Similarly, if you want to find the initial velocity (Vi), you would manipulate the equation to be:

Vi = √(Vf² - 2ad)

To find the acceleration (a), you can rearrange the equation to be:

a = (Vf² - Vi²) / (2d)

And to find the displacement (d), you can rearrange the equation to be:

d = (Vf² - Vi²) / (2a)

Remember to pay attention to the units of measurement when solving these problems, as they can affect your final answer.

I hope this helps you understand how to manipulate the kinematic equation to find the different variables. Good luck with your homework!
 

What are the kinematic equations?

The kinematic equations are a set of mathematical formulas used to describe the motion of objects in terms of their position, velocity, and acceleration. They are derived from the basic principles of motion, such as the laws of conservation of energy and momentum.

What is the purpose of manipulating kinematic equations?

Manipulating kinematic equations allows scientists to solve for different variables in a given scenario and understand the relationship between different quantities, such as displacement, velocity, and time. This is especially useful in analyzing and predicting the motion of objects in real-world situations.

What are the four basic kinematic equations?

The four basic kinematic equations are:
1. Displacement (Δx) = Initial velocity (v0) x Time (t) + 0.5 x Acceleration (a) x Time (t)2
2. Velocity (v) = Initial velocity (v0) + Acceleration (a) x Time (t)
3. Final velocity (v) = Initial velocity (v0) + Average acceleration (a) x Time (t)
4. Displacement (Δx) = 0.5 x (Initial velocity (v0) + Final velocity (v)) x Time (t)

How can I manipulate kinematic equations to solve for different variables?

To manipulate kinematic equations, you can use algebraic techniques such as rearranging equations, substitution, and solving for unknown variables. It is important to pay attention to the units and use appropriate equations for the given scenario.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when manipulating kinematic equations?

Some common mistakes to avoid when manipulating kinematic equations include:
- Using the wrong equation for the given scenario
- Not paying attention to the units and using inconsistent units
- Forgetting to square or square root values when necessary
- Making calculation errors or not following the correct order of operations
It is important to double-check your work and use a systematic approach when manipulating kinematic equations to avoid these mistakes.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
879
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
697
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
841
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
11
Views
2K
Back
Top