Physics HELP distances, velocity formulas

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the fundamental equations of motion in physics, specifically addressing the concepts of distance, velocity, and acceleration. Key equations highlighted include the average velocity formula (v(average) = s/t), the acceleration formula (a = (v - u)/t), and the distance formula (s = ut + 1/2 a t²). Participants clarify that acceleration is measured in meters per second squared (m/s²), time in seconds (s), and distance in meters (m). Understanding these formulas is essential for accurately calculating motion parameters.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of physics concepts such as motion and kinematics.
  • Familiarity with units of measurement: meters (m), seconds (s), and meters per second (m/s).
  • Knowledge of algebra for manipulating equations.
  • Understanding of instantaneous versus average quantities in motion.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the equations of motion in detail, focusing on their derivations and applications.
  • Learn how to solve problems involving acceleration using the formula a = (v - u)/t.
  • Explore practical examples of calculating distance using s = ut + 1/2 a t².
  • Investigate the differences between average velocity and instantaneous velocity.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone seeking to understand the principles of motion and how to apply them in real-world scenarios.

elyrly
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:cry: well i need couple equations explained to me. such as the distances formula, and the velocity which I'm currentlyusing i really didn't understand what goes where m/s^2?, s?, m? and so on :cry:
 
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do you mean instantaneous position/velocity/acceleration equations or average?
 
elyrly said:
:cry: well i need couple equations explained to me. such as the distances formula, and the velocity which I'm currentlyusing i really didn't understand what goes where m/s^2?, s?, m? and so on :cry:

Acceleration is in meters per second per second, m/s^2
Time is in seconds, s
Distance and Displacement are in meters, m
Speed and velocity are in meters per second, m/s

Are you looking at the equations of motion? Any of these ones:

[tex]v(average) = \frac{s}{t}[/tex]

[tex]a=\frac{v-u}{t}[/tex]

[tex]s=ut + \frac{1}{2} a t^2[/tex]

[tex]v^2=u^2 + 2as[/tex]

If any of those are the equations you're having trouble with, I can help you understand how to use them.

Andy
AMW Bonfire
 
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