Conversion of data when working out ave velocity

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The discussion revolves around the conversion of data for calculating average velocity and acceleration in physics problems. Participants express confusion about whether to convert initial velocity (u) from scientific notation before using it in equations. The key equation discussed is v = u + at, where users seek clarity on how to apply it correctly with varying units. There is a consensus that understanding the notation and ensuring consistent units is crucial for solving the problem accurately. The main goal is to determine acceleration based on changes in velocity over time while addressing unit conversion challenges.
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Homework Statement


Basically we were given some data and are expected to work out one value for eg:
u = 20ms/1, t=?, a=2.0ms/2, v=0.

But I'm having trouble when the known data is something like...

u= 2.0x10^-5 ms/1
I have no idea whether i should be working u out before i use it...
like if i were to solve u before i apply it to the equation

Homework Equations



u = 1.7x10^-4 ms/1
t = 3.0x10^-3 s
a = ?
v = 5.1x10^-4

The Attempt at a Solution



u= 0.00017
t = 0.003 s
a = ?
v = 0.00051

0.00017 + a*0.003 = 0.00051

:: a= 0.11333333333333334

I'm confused.. :(
 
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Sorry, I have no idea what you are asking about. Unfortunately physics can vary with notation, and it's not obvious to me what your notation indicates.

What is the end goal here, to find acceleration given a change in velocity over time?
 
Mindscrape said:
Sorry, I have no idea what you are asking about. Unfortunately physics can vary with notation, and it's not obvious to me what your notation indicates.

What is the end goal here, to find acceleration given a change in velocity over time?

Whether i have to convert before i solve and what is the equation for working out
acceleration if you were originally using v=u+at
 
u is in units of m*s? what did you measure?
 
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