- #1
Marcsmeets
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Homework Statement
Derive the equation v^2 = u^2 + 2as
I have no clue how to do this please can someone help!
Thank you!
Deriving the Equation v^2 = u^2 + 2as
- Thread starter Marcsmeets
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SUMMARY
The discussion focuses on deriving the equation v² = u² + 2as, which relates final velocity (v), initial velocity (u), acceleration (a), and displacement (s) under constant acceleration. Participants emphasize that this derivation can be approached using basic kinematic equations or energy principles, although the latter introduces mass unnecessarily. The consensus is that an understanding of algebra is sufficient for this derivation, making it suitable for introductory physics students.
PREREQUISITES- Basic algebra skills
- Familiarity with kinematic equations
- Understanding of constant acceleration concepts
- Introductory calculus knowledge (optional)
- Study the derivation of kinematic equations, specifically v² = u² + 2as
- Learn about the relationship between acceleration and velocity
- Explore the concept of energy in physics, particularly kinetic energy
- Review introductory calculus concepts relevant to motion
This discussion is beneficial for introductory physics students, educators teaching basic mechanics, and anyone looking to understand the derivation of motion equations under constant acceleration.
Derive the equation v^2 = u^2 + 2as
I have no clue how to do this please can someone help!
Thank you!
- #2
barryj
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Notice that there is no t involved in this relationship. Look at your equations for distance and average acceleration and see how to eliminate t.
- #3
gneill
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I don't know about you, but whenever I see velocity-squared terms I tend to think about kinetic energy... 
- #4
barryj
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gneill, I am sure you are correct but you can also derive this equation from two basic equations and energy principals are not required.
- #5
gneill
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barryj said:
Sure. But it's nice to have options. Some approaches are more intuitively obvious to different people.
- #6
barryj
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If you use energy, then you have to introduce mass and this is not necessary.
- #7
gneill
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barryj said:
Mass disappears by cancellation. No biggie. Or use specific energy
- #8
barryj
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So why complicate a simple problem?
- #9
gneill
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barryj said:
It's no more complicated an approach if you're familiar with the concept. Like I said, different strokes for different folks.
Let's wait to see what the OP comes up with.
- #10
IamBatman
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Derive via using other kinematic equations?
- #11
Mandelbroth
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Note that this equation is assuming that acceleration, the derivative of velocity with respect to time, is constant. This is, then, just a simple exercise in calculus.Marcsmeets said:
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Hi Marksmeets. Welcome to Physics Forums. We can best answer your question if we know whether you have had calculus yet. Have you?
- #13
IamBatman
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I'm thinking if its an intro class then there's no calculus and just want you to use other kinematic equations to this one. I remember having a question where it was just that for intro physics but I can't be certain about op.
- #14
barryj
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This is definitely an intro physics question. Only algebra 1 is needed, that is if you have the two kinematic equations.
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