Solving for Acceleration in an Emergency Braking Exercise: Kinematics Problem

In summary, to solve for acceleration in an emergency braking exercise, the formula a = (vf - vi) / t is used, where a is the acceleration, vf is the final velocity, vi is the initial velocity, and t is the time. The kinematics problem in this exercise involves determining the acceleration based on the initial and final velocities and the time it takes for the object to come to a stop. Acceleration can be negative in an emergency braking exercise, indicating deceleration. The time of the braking can be determined using the formula t = (vf - vi) / a. Other factors that can affect acceleration include the mass and friction of the object, as well as external forces such as wind resistance or road conditions.
  • #1
tahayassen
270
1

Homework Statement



In an emergency braking exercise, a student driver stops a car traveling at 83 km/h [W] in a time of 4.0 s. What is the car's acceleration during this time?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



a = (v2-v1)/t
= 83/4
= 21 m/(s^2) [E]
 
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  • #2
hi tahayassen! :smile:

erm :redface:

km/h :wink:
 
  • #3
Oh... What a dumb mistake. I'm looking at old tests that I've written, and I'm trying to see my mistakes for the upcoming exam!
 
  • #4
yeah, exam questions can be sneaky :yuck: …

always check the units! :smile:
 
  • #5


I would like to point out that the units for acceleration should be m/s^2, not m/(s^2). Additionally, it is important to note that the given direction of 83 km/h [W] should be converted to meters per second in order to use the correct units in the equation. This would give a final answer of 21 m/s^2 [W] for the car's acceleration during the emergency braking exercise. It is also important to consider the initial and final velocities in the equation to accurately calculate the acceleration.
 

1. How do you solve for acceleration in an emergency braking exercise?

To solve for acceleration in an emergency braking exercise, you need to know the initial velocity, final velocity, and time of the braking. This can be represented by the formula a = (vf - vi) / t, where a is the acceleration, vf is the final velocity, vi is the initial velocity, and t is the time.

2. What is the kinematics problem in an emergency braking exercise?

The kinematics problem in an emergency braking exercise involves determining the acceleration of a moving object during the braking process. This is based on the initial and final velocities and the time it takes for the object to come to a stop.

3. Can acceleration be negative in an emergency braking exercise?

Yes, acceleration can be negative in an emergency braking exercise. This means that the object is decelerating or slowing down during the braking process.

4. How is the time of the braking determined in an emergency braking exercise?

The time of the braking can be determined by calculating the difference between the initial and final velocities and dividing it by the acceleration. This can be represented by the formula t = (vf - vi) / a.

5. What other factors can affect the acceleration in an emergency braking exercise?

Aside from the initial and final velocities and the time of the braking, other factors that can affect the acceleration in an emergency braking exercise include the mass and friction of the object, as well as external forces such as wind resistance or road conditions.

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