SUMMARY
The total displacement of a car accelerating uniformly from an initial speed of 11.3 m/s to a final speed of 18.5 m/s over a time period of 45 seconds is calculated using the kinematic equations. The acceleration is determined to be 0.16 m/s². The correct total displacement for the entire motion, including the initial cruising phase and the acceleration phase, is 1.52 km, contrary to the initial calculation of 670.5 m, which only accounted for the acceleration phase. This highlights the importance of considering the entire duration of motion when calculating displacement.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of kinematic equations, specifically v(1) = at + v(o) and v² = v(o)² + 2a(x - x₀)
- Basic knowledge of uniform acceleration and its implications on motion
- Ability to perform calculations involving speed, time, and acceleration
- Familiarity with converting units (e.g., meters to kilometers)
NEXT STEPS
- Study the derivation and application of kinematic equations in physics
- Learn how to calculate total displacement for varying acceleration scenarios
- Explore real-world applications of uniform acceleration in automotive engineering
- Practice problems involving unit conversions, particularly in physics contexts
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on kinematics, as well as educators looking for examples of common misconceptions in motion problems.