Finding uniformly increasing acceleration.

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SUMMARY

The acceleration of a rocket that travels uniformly from rest over a distance of 650 meters in 12 seconds is calculated using the equation s = v_i t + (1/2) a t^2. By substituting the known values into this equation, the correct acceleration is determined to be 9 m/s². The attempt to use the change in velocity equation, a = Δv/Δt, is unnecessary in this scenario as the initial velocity is zero and the change in velocity is not provided.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations, specifically s = v_i t + (1/2) a t²
  • Basic knowledge of acceleration and its calculation
  • Familiarity with the concept of uniform motion
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of kinematic equations in physics
  • Learn about uniform acceleration and its implications in real-world scenarios
  • Explore the concept of initial velocity and its impact on motion calculations
  • Practice solving problems involving acceleration and distance using various kinematic equations
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on kinematics, as well as educators looking for clear examples of motion equations in action.

AcousticBruce
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Homework Statement



What is the acceleration of a rocket that travels uniformly from rest and travels 650m in the first 12 seconds.

Homework Equations



[tex]s=v_it+\frac{1}{2}at^2[/tex]

[tex]a=\frac{\Delta v}{\Delta t}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



I pluged the acceleration equation into the first equation.

[tex]s=0(12)+\frac{1}{2}\frac{650}{12}12^2[/tex]

that equaled 7800 m/s squared. That is so far off. The answer is 9 m/s squared.
 
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You don't need the second equation, and it's not useful because you don't know what the change in v was.

The first equation is perfectly adequate. You know s, you know vi and you know t. Solve for a.
 

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