Textbook Question
A sports car moving at constant velocity travels 120 m in 5.0 s. If it then brakes and comes to a stop in 3.7 s, what is the magnitude of its acceleration (assumed constant) in m/s², and in g's (g = 9.80 m/s²)?
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2. 1D Motion / Kinematics
Intro to Acceleration
Multiple Choice
How can you calculate the acceleration of an object if you know its initial velocity, final velocity, and the distance traveled?
A
Use the formula a = (v + u) / 2t
B
Use the formula a = (v^2 - u^2) / (2s)
C
Use the formula a = (v - u) / t
D
Use the formula a = s / t^2
Verified step by step guidance1
First, identify the given values: initial velocity (u), final velocity (v), and distance traveled (s).
Understand that the formula to calculate acceleration when you have initial velocity, final velocity, and distance is: a = (v^2 - u^2) / (2s).
This formula is derived from the kinematic equation v^2 = u^2 + 2as, which relates velocity, acceleration, and distance.
Rearrange the kinematic equation to solve for acceleration (a): a = (v^2 - u^2) / (2s).
Substitute the known values of initial velocity (u), final velocity (v), and distance (s) into the formula to find the acceleration.
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