Why Are Initial Velocity and Position the Constants in Motion Equations?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the integration of Newton's second law to derive the position of a particle over time, specifically questioning why initial velocity and initial position are treated as constants in motion equations.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster questions the logic behind associating the first constant of integration with initial velocity and the second with initial position, wondering if this is arbitrary or has a rationale.
  • Some participants discuss the relationship between acceleration and the constants of integration, noting that it may depend on the nature of the acceleration function.
  • One participant suggests that if acceleration is a polynomial of time, the constant of integration corresponds to the velocity at time t=0, prompting further exploration of this idea.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the integration process and its implications. Some guidance has been offered regarding the relationship between acceleration and the constants, but no consensus has been reached yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of different types of acceleration functions and how they affect the integration process, which may lead to varying interpretations of the constants involved.

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Homework Statement



So my main issue is with regards to when you integrate Newton's second law twice to get the position of a particle with respect to time. Why does everyone say that the first constant of your integration is initial velocity and second constant is initial position. Is there any logic behind that or is it just arbitary?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Because the second derivative of position is acceleration.
 
It actually depends on what kind of function the acceleration is. But If the acceleration is a polynomial of time, then the constant of integration does equal the velocity at t=0.

You can realize this logically. If the acceleration is a polynomial, which you then integrate, then what must be the value of the polynomial at t=0?

P.S. welcome to physicsforums :)

Edit: I mean 'what is the value of the integrated polynomial, without the constant of integration, at t=0' Hmm, maybe I asked for too many steps at once. First, start off with a polynomial, then integrate it.
 
Last edited:
For a constant acceleration the position of the object is

[itex]S=S{_0}+U{_0}t-\frac{1}{2}at^2[/itex]

[itex]\frac {ds}{dt}=U{_0}-at[/itex]

[itex]\frac {dv}{dt}=-a[/itex]
 

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