Switching Time Formula: Step-by-Step Guide for Changing a Formula [SOLVED]

  • Thread starter Thread starter TheShapeOfTime
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Formula
AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on how to rearrange the formula for time in the equation delta d = Vi * delta t + 1/2 * a * delta t^2. Participants emphasize the need to rewrite the equation in standard quadratic form, identifying constants K1, K2, and K3. One user clarifies that K1 = 1/2a, K2 = Vf, and K3 = -delta d. The conversation also touches on the importance of selecting the physically meaningful root of the quadratic equation. Ultimately, the user expresses gratitude for the assistance in understanding the process.
TheShapeOfTime
[SOLVED] Changing a Formula

How do I switch the following formula for time?

delta d = Vi * delta t + 1/2 * a * delta t^2


d = distance
Vi = initial velocity
a = acceleration
t = time


Any sort of steps would be greatly appreciated as I don't just want the answer, I always like to know how it's done :).

P.S. Sorry about the wording of the question and how the formula is written out, I need to get better at it.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What are the roots of a quadratic equation..?
 
arildno said:
What are the roots of a quadratic equation..?

Sorry, but I don't really get what you mean (noobness :\). All I can tell you is that I know you solve quadratic equations by factoring.

EDIT: I removed my nonsense ;)
 
Last edited by a moderator:
You know how to solve for x the following equation, right?:
ax^2+bx+c=0 (a,b,c constants)
 
arildno said:
You know how to solve for x the following equation, right?:
ax^2+bx+c=0 (a,b,c constants)


Looks like you replied while I was editing my post. My answer is yes.
 
It seems you have severe problems with simple algebra (your edit is sheer nonsense).
Now, in order to proceed, try to rewrite your original equation into a form:
K_{1}(\delta{t})^{2}+K_{2}(\delta{t})+K_{3}=0
where K_{1},K_{2},K_{3} are constants (identify them!)
(\delta{t} is "delta t")
 
arildno said:
It seems you have severe problems with simple algebra (your edit is sheer nonsense).
Now, in order to proceed, try to rewrite your original equation into a form:
K_{1}(\delta{t})^{2}+K_{2}(\delta{t})+K_{3}=0
where K_{1},K_{2},K_{3} are constants (identify them!)
(\delta{t} is "delta t")

<br /> K_{1} = 1/2a, K_{2} = Vf, K_{3} = d<br />

Also, wouldn't it be -K_{3}, or am I wrong?
 
What's wrong with setting:
K_{3}=-\delta{d}
Now, you should be able to determine which values \delta{t}
Choose the root which is makes sense physically.
 
I understand now, thanks for helping me out!
 
Back
Top