Understanding Initial Velocity: v0 vs. vi in Motion Equations

[r_swayze]

Whats the difference between v₀ and v_i ?

I thought they both meant initial velocity but my teacher used them both in the formula sheet he gave us. Here's a example.

motion equations:

x = x₀ +v₀ t +1/2 at^2

delta x = v_i t + 1/2 at^2

 

[Anden]

The 0 and i are the indexes of the variables, they are merely there to make it easier to recognize variables if you have several of the same type (for example several velocities). Vo and Vi are both used for initial velocity, so both mean basically the same thing.

 

[Redbelly98]

Whats the difference between v₀ and v_i ?

I thought they both meant initial velocity but my teacher used them both in the formula sheet he gave us. Here's a example.

motion equations:

x = x₀ +v₀ t +1/2 at^2

delta x = v_i t + 1/2 at^2

Yes, v₀ and v_i both mean initial velocity in these equations.