Simple Constant acceleration equation but I dont get it

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving a particle that changes direction and has a constant acceleration. The individual initially gets the wrong answer but is reminded that distance is not the same as displacement. After clarification, they are able to solve the problem correctly.
  • #1
FireWarden
4
0

Homework Statement



A particle moving at 5 m/s reverses its direction in 1s to move at 5 m/s in the opposite direction. If is acceleration is constant, what distance does it travel?


Homework Equations


The constant acceleration equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I use x=vot + 1/2at2 were a= (vfinal- vinitial)/t. I get the wrong answer. Something about having to plug in half the time for some reason that I don't understand. Would some one please help me out?
 
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  • #2
FireWarden said:
I get the wrong answer.

Can you show us what answer you got and how?
 
  • #3
I get get the answer to be distance equals 0 because i use:

vi to be 5 m/s
vf to be -5m/s
a to be -10

I plug those into the equations mentioned above. It seems to be the incorrect answer but doesn't it make sense? I must be missing fundamental here.
 
  • #4
You have correctly found zero which is the displacement. However the problem is asking to find the distance. Distance is not the same as displacement. Imagine an odometer hooked up to the particle. By how much has the odometer changed when the particle has gone out and come back to where it started?
 
  • #5
I got it. Thanks.

Much much karma to you.
 

FAQ: Simple Constant acceleration equation but I dont get it

What is the simple constant acceleration equation and how does it work?

The simple constant acceleration equation, also known as the kinematic equations, is a set of equations used to describe the motion of an object with constant acceleration. The equation is v = u + at, where v is the final velocity, u is the initial velocity, a is the acceleration, and t is the time. This equation works by calculating the final velocity of an object after a certain amount of time has passed, given its initial velocity and acceleration.

Can you explain the difference between velocity and acceleration in the simple constant acceleration equation?

Velocity and acceleration are both important components in the simple constant acceleration equation, but they have different meanings. Velocity refers to the speed and direction of an object's motion, while acceleration refers to the rate at which an object's velocity changes. In the equation, velocity is represented by v and acceleration is represented by a.

How can I use the simple constant acceleration equation to solve problems?

To use the simple constant acceleration equation, you first need to identify the known values, such as the initial velocity, final velocity, acceleration, and time. Then, plug these values into the equation and solve for the unknown variable. It is important to pay attention to the units of measurement, as they must be consistent throughout the equation.

What are some real-life examples where the simple constant acceleration equation is used?

The simple constant acceleration equation is used in many real-life situations, such as calculating the distance a car travels when braking, determining the speed of a falling object, or predicting the trajectory of a projectile. It is also commonly used in physics and engineering to analyze the motion of objects.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using the simple constant acceleration equation?

One common mistake when using the simple constant acceleration equation is using the wrong units of measurement or mixing different units in the same equation. It is also important to use the correct sign conventions for velocity and acceleration, as positive and negative values represent different directions of motion. Lastly, make sure to double-check your calculations and use the correct equation for the specific problem at hand.

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