Calculating Final Velocity with Acceleration: Space Shuttle Example

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the final velocity of the space shuttle after 55.2 seconds with an acceleration of 53.2 m/s², the relevant equation is v_f = v_i + a*t. Assuming the initial velocity (v_i) is zero, the final velocity (v_f) can be determined by multiplying the acceleration by the time: v_f = 0 + (53.2 m/s² * 55.2 s). This results in a final velocity of 2,940.64 m/s. Understanding the relationship between acceleration, time, and velocity is crucial for solving similar physics problems.
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Homework Statement



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



Homework Equations


not sure?


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 couldn't find anything - which of course could be me just missing it entirely.
 
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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[/size]) , a "t' for time.

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

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.
 
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 :)
 
short_tarts said:
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 :)

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?
 
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