How to Find Acceleration for a Car Stopping Over 50m from 80 km/h?

AI Thread Summary
To find the acceleration of a car stopping from 80 km/h over a distance of 50 meters, the relevant equation of motion is v^2 = u^2 + 2as. The discussion emphasizes using this equation, which is applicable for constant acceleration. Participants note that while other equations exist for average velocity and acceleration, this specific equation is suitable for the problem at hand. It is generally assumed that unless specified otherwise, the acceleration can be considered constant for such calculations. Understanding and applying the correct equations is crucial for solving motion problems effectively.
888
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hi,
i need help on a question... if a car stop in a distance of 50m from the speed of 80 km/h how do you find the acceleration is m/s/s? thanks
 
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What equations of motion do you know? How about rearanging:

v^2=u^2 + 2as
 
i've never used that equation before but all the other equations i know are for constant acceleration or average velocity
 
888 said:
i've never used that equation before but all the other equations i know are for constant acceleration or average velocity

Well what equations do you know?
 
The equation I put up was for constant acceleration and speeds.
 
the equations that i know are: aver. v= v2+v1/2
x2= x1+v1t+.5at^2
v^2=V1^2+2a(x2-x1)
v2= v1+at
those are only for constant acc.

aver acc= v2-v1/t2-t1
aver. vel.=x2-x1/t2-t1
 
888 said:
v^2=V1^2+2a(x2-x1)

This is the same equation as Kurdt posted above, and it is the one that you should use to solve this problem.
 
Thats just fine because you are looking for the constant acceleration.
 
however the question doesn't say it's looking for constant acceleration
 
  • #10
888 said:
however the question doesn't say it's looking for constant acceleration

But it does say to find the acceleration, and unless you know how to find a non-constant acceleration you should just assume that you are looking for constant acceleration.
 
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