How Do You Calculate Initial Velocity with Constant Acceleration?

Your name]In summary, a car with constant acceleration traveled a distance of 74.0m in 8.00s. The final velocity at the second point was 15.3m/s. The equation for displacement with constant acceleration is x-x_0 = (v_ox + v_x / 2)t. However, there was an error in the calculation, as the correct initial velocity is 5.7 m/s. It is important to include units in calculations and to not delete forum threads for future reference and help for others.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



Hi,

A car is moving with constant acceleration covers the distance 74.0m. between two points in time 8.00s. Its speed as it passes the second point is 15.3m/s.




Homework Equations




The equation I am trying to use, is

x-x_0 = (v_ox + v_x / 2)t

The Attempt at a Solution




I would think that is the correct formula, as we know final displacement of 75m. Initial would be 0m.
Initial Velocity would be unknown, we are trying to find it.

Final velocity would be 15.3m/s.
and time would be 8s.

I plug does in the equation and solve and I get 3.45 m/s. Am I missing something? wrong equation?..:confused:

please and thank you

NVM, my mistake was in calculations. How do I delete this thread. lol
 
Last edited:
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  • #2

Thank you for your post. I am a scientist and I am here to help you with your question.

Firstly, your equation is correct. The equation for displacement with constant acceleration is x-x_0 = (v_ox + v_x / 2)t. However, there seems to be an error in your calculation. When I plug in the values you have given, I get an initial velocity of 5.7 m/s, not 3.45 m/s. Please double check your calculations.

Also, I would like to mention that it is important to include units in your calculations. In this case, the units for displacement are meters (m), time is in seconds (s), and velocity is in meters per second (m/s). This will help you keep track of your units and ensure that your final answer is in the correct unit.

Lastly, please do not delete this thread. It is important to keep all posts and discussions on the forum for future reference and for other users who may have the same question. I hope this helps and please let me know if you have any further questions.
 
  • #3


Dear student,

I'm glad you were able to figure out your mistake! As a scientist, it's important to always double check our calculations and equations to ensure accuracy. It's also important to be open to making mistakes and learning from them, as it helps us grow and improve our skills.

As for deleting the thread, unfortunately, I do not have the ability to delete it. However, you can mark it as "solved" so that others know that you have found the solution.

Keep up the good work and don't be afraid to ask for help or clarification when needed. That's what being a scientist is all about!

Best regards,
 

Related to How Do You Calculate Initial Velocity with Constant Acceleration?

1. What is constant acceleration?

Constant acceleration is the rate at which an object's velocity changes over time, and remains the same throughout the object's journey.

2. How is constant acceleration calculated?

Constant acceleration can be calculated by dividing the change in velocity by the change in time. This can be represented by the formula a = (vf - vi)/t, where a is acceleration, vf is final velocity, vi is initial velocity, and t is time.

3. How do you solve for distance in a car's journey with constant acceleration?

To solve for distance, you can use the formula d = vi*t + (1/2)*a*(t^2), where d is distance, vi is initial velocity, t is time, and a is acceleration. This formula is derived from the relationship between velocity, time, and distance (v = vi + at) and the formula for displacement (d = vit + (1/2)at^2).

4. Can a car have both constant acceleration and constant velocity at the same time?

No, a car cannot have both constant acceleration and constant velocity at the same time. Constant acceleration means the velocity is changing, while constant velocity means the velocity remains the same. These two concepts are mutually exclusive.

5. What factors can affect constant acceleration in a car's journey?

Some factors that can affect constant acceleration in a car's journey include the car's engine power, the weight of the car, and external forces such as friction and air resistance. Additionally, the road conditions and incline can also affect the car's acceleration.

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