AP Physics 1 kinematics problem

In summary, the engineer of a passenger train traveling at 30m/s spotted a slow-moving freight train 200m ahead on the same track, moving at a constant velocity of 10m/s. The passenger train immediately applied the brakes with a constant deceleration of 1m/s^2, while the freight train continued at a constant speed. Using the equation v^2 = a(d-d0) + v0^2, the distance the passenger train will travel before the collision takes place is 400m. However, there may be some discrepancy as the problem states that the freight train moves at a constant speed, making the relevance of the equation questionable.
  • #1
pow

Homework Statement


The engineer of a passenger train rounding a curve at 30m/s sights a slow-moving freight train 200m ahead on the same track traveling in the same direction with a constant velocity of 10m/s. The engineer of the passenger train immediately applies the brakes, causing a constant deceleration of 1m/s2, while the freight train continues on with a constant speed.

What distance will the passenger train travel before the collision takes place?
Passenger train
Do= 0m
D= ?
Vo= 30 m/s
V = 0
a = -1m/s^2

Freight train
Do= 200m
D= ?
Vo= 10 m/s
V = 0
a = 0m/s^2

Homework Equations


v2= 2(a)(d-do )+ vo2

3. The Attempt at a Solution

setting the equation equal to each other.
2(-1)(d-0)+302-0= 2(0)(d-200)+100-0
-2d+900=100
-2d=-800
d=400[/B]
 
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  • #2
it says in the problem statement that the freight train moves at a constant speed. So how is it possible that the freight train ends up with a speed ##v = 0##?
if the train moves at constant speed, is ##v^2 = a(d - d_0) + v_0^2## really a relevant equation?
 

FAQ: AP Physics 1 kinematics problem

What is AP Physics 1 kinematics?

AP Physics 1 kinematics is a branch of physics that deals with the study of motion, specifically the motion of objects without considering the forces that cause the motion. It involves understanding concepts such as displacement, velocity, acceleration, and time.

What are the key components of a kinematics problem?

The key components of a kinematics problem are the initial and final position, initial and final velocity, acceleration, and time. These values are used to calculate the unknown quantity in the problem.

How do I approach solving a kinematics problem?

Step 1: Identify the given and unknown quantities in the problem.
Step 2: Determine which kinematics equation(s) can be used based on the given values.
Step 3: Substitute the known values into the appropriate equation(s).
Step 4: Solve for the unknown quantity.
Step 5: Check your answer for accuracy and units.

What is the difference between distance and displacement?

Distance is the total length traveled by an object, while displacement is the change in position of the object in a specific direction. Distance is a scalar quantity, while displacement is a vector quantity.

How can I improve my problem-solving skills in AP Physics 1 kinematics?

Practice! The more problems you solve, the better you will become at identifying key components and applying the appropriate equations. Also, make sure to understand the concepts and not just memorize formulas. Work on understanding the reasoning behind each step in the problem-solving process.

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