# Acceleration word problem.

1. Aug 6, 2009

### short_tarts

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

The space shuttle undergoes an acceleration of 53.2 meters/second^2. How fast is it traveling at the end of 55.2 seconds?

2. Relevant equations
not sure?

3. The attempt at a solution
All i really need is the set up. I've gone through a page of equations in my physics book, and couldnt find anything - which of course could be me just missing it entirely.

2. Aug 6, 2009

### Chi Meson

If an object gains 53.2 m/s of speed every second, how fast is it going after one second? After two seconds? After 3 seconds? After 55.2 seconds?

As far as looking for equations goes, you want to find an equation that contains an "a" for acceleration, a "v" for final velocity (could be a Vf) , a "t' for time.

Also you want to be aware that initial velocity is assumed to be zero (might be a "u" or Vo).

Please be aware that your problems do not get any easier than this one. Don't give up, you get the knack for it after practice.

3. Aug 6, 2009

### short_tarts

thank you! and thank you for the heads up, see what happened was i asked my friend and asked basically what you told me and he said he didnt think it was that (and he had taken physics last year).

thanks again :)

4. Aug 6, 2009

### rock.freak667

Acceleration is change in velocity per unit time.

$$a=\frac{v_f-v_i}{t}$$

if you assume vi=0 then, how would you get vf?