Solving Distance of Train from Start to Stoppage

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To determine the distance a train traveling at 280 km/h (approximately 77.78 m/s) travels before stopping under a constant deceleration of -2 m/s², kinematic equations are essential. The relevant equations include v = v₀ + at, v² = v₀² + 2ae, and x = x₀ + v₀t + ½at². The focus should be on using the known initial and final velocities, along with acceleration, to find the distance without needing to calculate time. Understanding these equations is crucial for solving problems involving constant acceleration. Mastery of these concepts is necessary for success in physics exams.
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Homework Statement



Train goes at 280km/h. Starts breaking with a constant acceleration of -2m/s-2. How many meters does it perform until it stops completely? Sorry if the English is poor.

Homework Equations



If I had them I probably wouldn't be asking.

The Attempt at a Solution



Well, 280km/h equals to about 77.78 m/s. Great, what now?:confused:
 
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If you are going to do kinematic exercises you should know the basic equations.

v=v_{0}+at
v^{2}=v^{2}_{0}+2ae
x=x_{0}+v_{0}t+\frac{1}{2}at^{2}

Try with those, one should work, and write them down for the next problems.
 
Canha said:

Homework Statement



Train goes at 280km/h. Starts breaking with a constant acceleration of -2m/s-2. How many meters does it perform until it stops completely? Sorry if the English is poor.

Homework Equations



If I had them I probably wouldn't be asking.

Constant acceleration is the hint. There are kinematic equations that should be used to answer this question.

The Attempt at a Solution



Well, 280km/h equals to about 77.78 m/s. Great, what now?:confused:

ok. that's a start. =) write down your knowns: v initial, v final, a. Your unknown is distance.
 
I do know the first and third, but those don't seem to help do they? What do I do with the time in there? I don't have any reference to the time. What's the 'e' in the second one?

Thanks in advance.

EDIT: Oh, should I discover the time at which the final v is at 0 and then substitute in the motion equation to find out the position?
 
Last edited:
look at your knowns and look at the equations.

e is distance
 
Canha said:
I do know the first and third, but those don't seem to help do they? What do I do with the time in there? I don't have any reference to the time. What's the 'e' in the second one?

Thanks in advance.

EDIT: Oh, should I discover the time at which the final v is at 0 and then substitute in the motion equation to find out the position?
Don't need to find time!
 
mizzy said:
Don't need to find time!

But would it work?
Anyway I never heard about the second equation but it did work! I don't understand but it did lol.
 
those are the 3 main equations to know for constant acceleration
 
mizzy said:
those are the 3 main equations to know for constant acceleration

I don't think I would pull this off in an exam (now I would).

Thank you both!
 
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you're welcome =)
 
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