SUVAT Equations for Vectors - Is it the Same?

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SUMMARY

The SUVAT equations for vectors are fundamentally the same as their scalar counterparts, with the primary distinction being the representation of variables. In vector form, displacement (s), initial velocity (u), final velocity (v), and acceleration (a) are all treated as vectors, denoted with harpoons or bold type. While the mathematical operations remain consistent in one-dimensional motion, they become more complex in two or three dimensions, requiring careful vector addition and multiplication. For clarity in written reports, it is essential to represent all vector variables distinctly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector notation (harpoon and bold type)
  • Familiarity with basic algebra and physics concepts
  • Knowledge of vector addition and multiplication
  • Concept of unilinear motion in physics
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  • Study vector operations in two and three dimensions
  • Learn about vector notation conventions in physics
  • Explore applications of SUVAT equations in multi-dimensional motion
  • Review examples of vector displacement and velocity calculations
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Students of physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone interested in understanding vector equations and their applications in motion analysis.

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When quoting the suvat equations for vectors, are they exactly the same as the normal ones, apart from the fact that the letters (apart from t) have "lines" underneath them?

Thanks
 
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the "suvat" equations ARE vector equations. The "s" is specifically the displacement vector; u and v are velocity vectors; a is the acceleration vector. Usually you learn to use suvat in "unilinear" motion which is one dimensional. When doing so, the mathematics is the same as simple algebra. If you are working in two or three dimensions, then your operations for adding and multiplying vectors gets a bit more complicated.

Instead of v=35m/s, for example, you get v=35î +23ˆj +12ˆk m/s, etc.

So the equations themselves are the same. You can indicate vectors with the "harpoon" over the letter, or "blackboard bold" (my favorite) or any other conventional vector indication, but usually "suva" are all assumed to be vectors. I wouldn't worry about it in homework, or quick calculations, but in any report or other typed format, I'd at least indicate all vector varibles in bold type.
 
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