Car Acceleration: Determining Speed & Distance

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the speed and distance of a car that accelerates uniformly at +2.7 m/s² for 6.0 seconds and then decelerates at -1.0 m/s² for 1.0 second. The final speed after braking is determined to be 15.2 m/s using the equation v = v(initial) + at. To find the total distance traveled, the problem is divided into two phases: the acceleration phase and the deceleration phase, treating the end of the first phase as the starting point for the second phase.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations in physics
  • Familiarity with uniform acceleration concepts
  • Ability to perform basic algebraic manipulations
  • Knowledge of how to break down multi-phase motion problems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the kinematic equation for distance: d = v(initial)t + 0.5at²
  • Learn how to analyze motion in multiple phases
  • Explore real-world applications of uniform acceleration in automotive engineering
  • Investigate the effects of different braking forces on stopping distance
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, automotive engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of motion and acceleration in vehicles.

nbroyle1
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A car starts from rest and travels for 6.0 s with a uniform acceleration of +2.7 m/s2. The driver then applies the brakes, causing a uniform acceleration of −1.0 m/s2. If the brakes are applied for 1.0 s, determine each of the following.

(a) How fast is the car going at the end of the braking period?

(b) How far has the car gone?

So, I already found out part a which is 15.2m/s by utilizing the equation v=v(initial)+at. I'm having some trouble finding the distance traveled with two different accelerations.
 
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As you probably did with the speed, break the problem down into two part: the acceleration phase and the deceleration phase. Use the distance and speed at the end of the first phase as the starting point for the second phase (ie, treat it like a second problem: "a car at x m from the origin, traveling at v m/s brakes at 1 m/s^s for 1s; find its speed and position after it has finished braking").
 
ok thanks!
 

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