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
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple 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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