Acceleration in one dimension

For example, if Car C is initially traveling at 50 mph and Car D is initially traveling at 60 mph, the distance between them will decrease even if Car C slows down to 40 mph and Car D speeds up to 70 mph. Therefore, it is possible for the distance between the cars to decrease while one is slowing down and the other is speeding up.
  • #1
yitriana
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Homework Statement


"2 cars C and D travel in the same direction in straight line. During particular time interval t, car D is AHEAD of car C, and D is speeding up while car C is slowing down. During the interval t, it is observed that the distance between the cars decreases. Explain how this is possible and give an example."

Homework Equations




The Attempt at a Solution



I don't see how this is possible. If Car C is slowing down, and Car D is speeding up, and same direction, how can the distance between them possible decrease?
 
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  • #2
Consider a case where the speeds are initially different.
 
  • #3
The velocity or starting positions could be initially different
 

1. What is acceleration in one dimension?

Acceleration in one dimension is the rate of change of an object's velocity over time. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.

2. How is acceleration calculated in one dimension?

Acceleration in one dimension can be calculated by dividing the change in an object's velocity by the change in time. The formula for acceleration is a = (vf - vi)/t, where a is acceleration, vf is final velocity, vi is initial velocity, and t is time.

3. What is the difference between acceleration and velocity?

Velocity is a measure of an object's speed and direction. Acceleration, on the other hand, is a measure of the change in an object's velocity. Velocity is a vector quantity, while acceleration is a vector quantity.

4. What are some examples of acceleration in one dimension?

Some examples of acceleration in one dimension include a car accelerating from a stop sign, a roller coaster going down a hill, and a ball falling towards the ground due to gravity.

5. How does acceleration affect an object's motion?

Acceleration can either speed up or slow down an object's motion, depending on its direction. If the acceleration is in the same direction as the object's motion, it will speed up. If the acceleration is in the opposite direction, it will slow down the object's motion.

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