What is the acceleration of the particle

AI Thread Summary
The motion of a particle is described by the equation x = u(t-2) + a(t-2)^2, leading to questions about its initial velocity, acceleration, and position at t=2s. The initial velocity is identified as u, while the acceleration is determined to be a. A discussion on the relationship between velocity and acceleration indicates that calculus concepts are relevant, despite some participants lacking formal exposure to it. Suggestions for simplifying the equation and substituting variables are made to aid understanding. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the importance of derivatives in analyzing motion, even for those unfamiliar with calculus.
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Homework Statement


The motion of a particle is given as follows :
##x=u(t-2)+a(t-2)^2##
Which of the following option(s) is/are correct ?
A.The initial velocity of particle is u
B.The acceleration of the particle is a
C.The acceleration of the particle is 2a
D.At ##t=2s## particle is at origin.

Homework Equations


##x=ut+\frac{1}{2}at^2##

The Attempt at a Solution


Simplifying the equation, we get,
##x=ut-2u+at^2-4at+4a##
Could somebody guide me as to what will be the next step ?
 
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Have you had (or are studying) calculus?

Chet
 
No. I have had no exposure to calculus.
 
Ashes Panigrahi said:
No. I have had no exposure to calculus.
Well, how are velocity and acceleration defined and related to each other?
 
The mentioned scenarios can be reduced to relative motion. Right ?
 
Ashes Panigrahi said:
The mentioned scenarios can be reduced to relative motion. Right ?
Nope.
 
Ashes Panigrahi said:
No. I have had no exposure to calculus.
Well, without calculus, it's not as easy , but try this: substitute t'=t-2 in your original equation and see shat you get.

Chet
 
But there is no t'. I just simplified the problem equation.
 
Let's try something different. Let's take your simplified equation and rewrite it as:
x=(4a-2u)+(u-4a)t+at^2
Compare this with:
x=x_0+v_0t+\frac{1}{2}At^2
where
x0=particle location at time zero
v0=particle velocity at time zero
A = particle acceleration

Chet
 
  • #10
Ashes Panigrahi said:
Simplifying the equation, we get,
##x=ut-2u+at^2-4at+4a##
dx/dt=v
dv/dt=a
I think you may be familiar with derivatives even if you haven't had much exposure to calculus.
 
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