How to Calculate Constant Acceleration and Distance?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating constant acceleration and distance for a car accelerating uniformly from rest to a speed of 79.7 mi/h in 9.01 seconds. The calculated constant acceleration is 3.95 m/s², derived from converting the speed to 35.6 m/s and dividing by the time. For distance, the correct formula is s = ut + ½ at², leading to a displacement of 17.79 m. The initial velocity (u) is zero, simplifying the distance calculation to ½ at².

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  • Understanding of kinematic equations
  • Knowledge of unit conversion (mi/h to m/s)
  • Familiarity with basic algebra
  • Concept of uniform acceleration
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Homework Statement


Q1: A car accelerates uniformly from rest to a
speed of 79.7 mi/h in 9.01 s.
Find the constant acceleration (expressed
in m/s2) of the car. Answer in units of m/s2.


Q2: Find the distance (expressed in m) that the
car travels during this time. Answer in units
of m.

Homework Equations


Acceleration
Distance



The Attempt at a Solution


Q1:
79.7mi/h = 35.6m/s
35.6/9.01 = 3.95m/s2

Q2:
3.95/2 * 9.01 = 17.79m
 
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Q1 looks fine to me, Q2 though, what formulae did you use?

I would have used [tex]s = ut + \frac{1}{2} at^2[/tex]

where s = displacement
u = initial velocity
t = time
a = acceleration

This is the same as what you've done except your t is not squared.
 

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