SUVAT: Solving for t When s=(u+v)t/2

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving for time (t) using the SUVAT equation s = (u + v)t/2. A user struggles with a specific problem involving a car accelerating uniformly from 5 m/s to 20 m/s over a distance of 500 m. They propose the rearrangement t = 2s/(u + v) and calculate t as 10 seconds, but express doubt about the accuracy of this solution. The community member encourages the user to clarify their calculations to verify the result.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of SUVAT equations in physics
  • Knowledge of uniform acceleration concepts
  • Basic algebra for rearranging equations
  • Familiarity with units of measurement (meters, seconds)
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of SUVAT equations
  • Practice solving problems involving uniform acceleration
  • Learn how to calculate acceleration using the formula a = (v - u)/t
  • Explore graphical representations of motion to visualize acceleration
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Students studying physics, particularly those learning about kinematics and uniform acceleration, as well as educators looking for examples to illustrate SUVAT applications.

Dan1601
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Using SUVAT if s=(u+v)t/2
would t=2s/(u+v)?
 
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Dan1601 said:
Hi, 1st day at college. 1st lesson on SUVAT and they set me a homework I am really struggling with hehe ended up coming here for ASAP for it being due tommorow.


I would say I am reasonably ok with it. One question I am just doubting I am right with is this:

A car accelerates uniformly from 5ms-1 to 20ms-1 over a distance of 500m.
How long does this take (t)
What is the cars acceleration? (a)


obviously using s=(u+v)t/2 but I am unsure how to rearrange it correctly. Taking a guess at 2s/(u+v)=t which provides me with an answer of 10. I don't think its correct because using t to find A i end up with 15/10 which doesn't sound correct. Please help

Your equation looks OK, but I can't see how you got 10 s out of it. Can you show what you did?
 

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