Solving for Acceleration in an Emergency Braking Exercise: Kinematics Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a kinematics problem involving the calculation of acceleration during an emergency braking scenario. A student driver is attempting to determine the car's acceleration after stopping from a speed of 83 km/h in 4.0 seconds.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the initial attempt at calculating acceleration using the formula a = (v2 - v1) / t, with a focus on the importance of unit conversion from km/h to m/s. There is also reflection on past mistakes and the need to verify calculations in preparation for exams.

Discussion Status

The conversation highlights a recognition of potential errors in unit conversion and emphasizes the importance of careful checking of units in problem-solving. Participants are engaging in a reflective dialogue about their understanding and past experiences with similar problems.

Contextual Notes

There is an acknowledgment of the challenges posed by exam questions and the necessity of reviewing previous tests to identify mistakes. The discussion does not resolve the initial problem but instead focuses on the learning process and common pitfalls.

tahayassen
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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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hi tahayassen! :smile:

erm :redface:

km/h :wink:
 
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!
 
yeah, exam questions can be sneaky

always check the units! :smile:
 

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