Kinematics help-determining distance traveled

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the distances traveled by a particle accelerating from rest over a period of 4 seconds. The relevant equation used is d = 1/2at², where d represents distance, a is acceleration, and t is time. The participant initially misinterprets the distance calculation, leading to confusion regarding the provided options. The correct approach involves calculating the distance for each second, revealing that the distances must increase quadratically due to constant acceleration.

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  • Understanding of kinematic equations, specifically d = v0t + 1/2at²
  • Basic knowledge of acceleration and its effects on distance
  • Ability to analyze sequences of distances in uniformly accelerated motion
  • Familiarity with the concept of starting from rest in physics
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  • Study the derivation and application of kinematic equations in physics
  • Learn how to calculate distance traveled under constant acceleration
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Homework Statement


A particle starts from rest and travels in a straight line for 4 s. If the particle is accelerating at a constant rate, which of the following could be the distances traveled by the particle during each consecutive second?

A) 10 m, 20 m, 30 m, 40 m

B) 5 m, 15 m, 25 m, 35 m

C) 5 m, 25 m, 125 m , 625 m

D) 2 m, 4 m, 8 m, 16 m




Homework Equations


d = v0t + 1/2at2

The Attempt at a Solution



So I know from the information given in the question, we know the particle starts at rest, and v0 would equal 0. Because of this, we are left with:

d = 1/2at2
If I plug in 4, we'd get:
d = 4a

So based on this information, I thought the particle would be traveling 4 times more the distance per second. However, none of the answers choices above matched for how I thought about the equation that I'm left with. Any input would be appreciated!
 
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The distance traveled in a second is the difference between the position before and after the second goes by. So, for instance, between 3 and 4 seconds the particle travels from d3 = 1/2 a 32 to d4 = 1/2 a 42.
 

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