What is wrong with following physics equations? (velocity and acceleration)

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the correct application of kinematic equations in physics, specifically addressing the relationships between average velocity, initial velocity, final velocity, and acceleration. The participant initially misapplies the formula Vf = at, which is only valid when the initial velocity (Vi) is zero. The correct formulation should be Vf = Vi + at, which incorporates the initial velocity. The confusion arises from the incorrect manipulation of the equations leading to an erroneous expression for height (h).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinematic equations in physics
  • Familiarity with concepts of velocity and acceleration
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
  • Knowledge of initial and final velocity definitions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of kinematic equations in physics
  • Learn about the implications of initial velocity in motion equations
  • Explore the concept of average velocity and its calculation
  • Investigate common mistakes in applying physics formulas
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching kinematics, and anyone looking to clarify their understanding of motion equations and their applications.

Selfphysicslearner
Messages
3
Reaction score
2
vavg=(Vi+Vf)/2
vavg=h/t
then vavg*t=h
h=(Vi+Vf)/2 * t
Vf=at
(Vit+at2)*1/2=h
But formula on every resource I found says it should be;
(Vit+at2*1/2)=h
What mistake did I do ?
 

Attachments

  • Untitled3.png
    Untitled3.png
    5.1 KB · Views: 189
Physics news on Phys.org
Selfphysicslearner said:
Vf=at
Is it?
Are you missing anything here?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • Haha
Likes   Reactions: Ibix
Selfphysicslearner said:
Vf=at
This is not generally correct.
 
cnh1995 said:
Is it?
Are you missing anything here?
I see it must be actually:Vf=Vi+at then there is 2 Vi in formula which eliminates 1/2 multiplied makes it
h=1/at^2 +2*1/2Vi
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: cnh1995 and Dale
What are the fundamental units of acceleration?
 
Selfphysicslearner said:
vavg=(Vi+Vf)/2
vavg=h/t
then vavg*t=h
h=(Vi+Vf)/2 * t
Vf=at
(Vit+at2)*1/2=h
But formula on every resource I found says it should be;
(Vit+at2*1/2)=h
What mistake did I do ?
Vf=at , this equation means final velocity = acceleration * time. This can happen only if initial velocity is 0, but in the equation Vi is the initial velocity and Vi is not 0 as per the equations wrriten.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
6K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K