Car passing two markers, kinematics question

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    Car Kinematics
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The discussion centers on solving a kinematics problem involving a car passing two markers. Participants confirm the correctness of the initial method used to calculate velocity (V1) and time differences. An alternative approach using average velocity is suggested, along with a formula for acceleration based on position and time differences. The calculated velocity of 14.605 m/s is validated by multiple participants, and a method for determining average speed between the markers is also discussed. Overall, the methods and calculations presented are affirmed as accurate.
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Homework Statement
A car accelerates at 1.80m/s2 along a straight road. It passes two marks that are 28.1m apart at times t=3.75s and t=5.00s. What was the car's velocity at t=0?
Relevant Equations
d = V1t + 0.5at^2
V2 = V1 + at
i calculated the time difference between each marker, and using the first equation, i solved for V1.
i then used this V1 as V2, time as the first marker (3.75) and used the second equation to solve for V1.

is this method correct? can somebody please verify?
 
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looks right.
 
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Yes, your method seems correct to me too.
 
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Delta2 said:
Yes, your method seems correct to me too.
that's a relief! would you please mind sharing your answer with me so i can verify mine?
 
orangegalaxies said:
that's a relief! would you please mind sharing your answer with me so i can verify mine?
Using the average velocity is another way to solve this problem.
 
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PeroK said:
Or, you could use ##d = \frac 1 2 at^2## and get an equation for ##a## in terms of the difference in positions and difference in times that you are given.
14.605 m/s?
 
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orangegalaxies said:
14.605 m/s?
Bingo!
 
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orangegalaxies said:
14.605 m/s?
The other approach is that average speed between the markers is ##22.48 m/s## (which is ##28.1m## in ##1.25s##), which (for constant acceleration) must equate to the speed at the middle time ##4.375s##.

Then, you can get ##v_0## from this and the acceleration.
 
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