Figuring out time when you have acceleration and distance.

In summary, to calculate time when given acceleration and distance, you can use the formula t = √(2d/a) where t is time, d is distance, and a is acceleration. The units for acceleration and distance should be in meters per second squared (m/s^2) and meters (m) respectively. This formula only applies to constant acceleration. As acceleration or distance increases, time will decrease, and vice versa. There are other formulas, such as t = (vf - vi)/a, that can be used for more accurate calculations, taking into account the change in velocity over time.
  • #1
cneedshelp
14
0
How long does it take a car to travel 30.0m if it accelerates at a rate of 2.00m/s^2?
Given
Distance- 30.0m
A-2.00m/s^2

Do I need to find vi?
 
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  • #2
You must need to assume it is initially at rest, otherwise the problem is incomplete.
 
  • #3
1MileCrash said:
You must need to assume it is initially at rest, otherwise the problem is incomplete.

So now I have
Distance- 30.0m
a-2.00m/s^2
vi-0m/s
So can i now use the d=1/2at^2 formula?
But we're solving for t
making the equation t, taking the square root of 2d/a right?
 
Last edited:

1. How do you calculate time when given acceleration and distance?

To calculate time when given acceleration and distance, you can use the formula t = √(2d/a), where t is time, d is distance, and a is acceleration.

2. What units should be used for acceleration and distance when solving for time?

Acceleration should be in meters per second squared (m/s^2) and distance should be in meters (m) when using the formula t = √(2d/a).

3. Can the formula t = √(2d/a) be used for all types of acceleration?

No, the formula t = √(2d/a) is only applicable for constant acceleration. For non-constant acceleration, the calculation of time will be more complicated.

4. How does time change when acceleration and distance are increased or decreased?

As acceleration or distance increases, time will decrease. Conversely, as acceleration or distance decreases, time will increase.

5. Is there a more accurate way to calculate time when given acceleration and distance?

Yes, there are other formulas that can be used to calculate time when given acceleration and distance, such as t = (vf - vi)/a, where vf is final velocity, vi is initial velocity, and a is acceleration. This formula takes into account the change in velocity over time.

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