- #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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Homework Help Overview
The original poster seeks assistance in deriving the equation v^2 = u^2 + 2as, which relates to kinematics and motion under constant acceleration. The context suggests a focus on basic principles of physics without the need for advanced calculus.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation
Approaches and Questions Raised
- Participants discuss the absence of time in the equation and suggest eliminating it using distance and average acceleration equations. Some consider the relationship to kinetic energy, while others emphasize deriving it from basic kinematic equations. There are differing opinions on the necessity of introducing mass in the derivation.
Discussion Status
The discussion is active, with various approaches being explored. Some participants offer guidance on potential methods, while others express uncertainty about the original poster's background in calculus and physics. There is no explicit consensus on a single method to derive the equation.
Contextual Notes
It is noted that the equation assumes constant acceleration and that the original poster may be in an introductory physics class, which could influence the methods available for derivation.
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:
- #12
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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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