Vectors and Acceleration in a Straight Line

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating changes in velocity and understanding notation in physics problems. For the first scenario, the change in velocity from 6.0 m/s to -15 m/s is correctly noted as -9 m/s with a 180-degree direction change, while the change from 5.0 m/s East to 15 m/s West is noted as 9 m/s with a direction change from 90 degrees to 270 degrees. In the second part, the average velocity of the baby buggy is calculated as 3 m/s, and the final velocity at the bottom can be derived using the formula v = u + at, with acceleration determined from the distance and time. The formula s = t(u + v)/2 is also mentioned as a method to find final velocity when acceleration is constant. Overall, the answers provided for the first question are deemed acceptable.
Peter G.
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What is the change in velocity when:
a) 6.0 m/s becomes - 15 m/s
b) 5.0 m/s East becomes 15 m/s West

My doubt is mainly the notation: How I should answer, here is my try:

a) -9 m/s with 180 degrees change in direction
b) 9 m/s with from direction bearing 90 degrees to 270 degrees

And: A baby buggy rolls down a ramp which is 15 m long. It starts from rest and accelerates uniformly and takes 5.0 seconds to reach the bottom:
a) Average Velocity: 15 /5 = 3 m/s

Now, b asks for the velocity at the bottom. I don't know how to calculate the velocity without the acceleration, which is asked in question c)

c) s = ut x 1/2at^2
a = 1.2 m/s^2

and then

b) v = u + at
v = 6 m/s

Anyone can teach me how to get the velocity without the acceleration and with the notation in the first question?

Thanks,
Peter
 
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You can find the final velocity with this formula (only when acceleration is constant):

s = t(u+v)/2
 
Aw, yea that's right, thanks.

And what about my answers to the first question? Think they are O.K?
 
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