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Solving Constant Acceleration Problems
Solving Constant Acceleration Problems
v (m/s)
vf
v = at + vi
t (s)
t
Constant Acceleration Equations
Lets look at what we’re really doing when we calculate the area
under the curve. For this, we’ll need to take away the numbers.
v (m/s)
Area for rectangle: x = vit
vf
vf = 0
Recognizing Information
To solve these types of problems, you need to list out all the information
you’re told as well as the variable you’re trying to find.
Given information:
t = .01 s
a = -8000 m/s2
vf = 0
vi = ?
Recognizing Information
Next, you’ll need to choose the right equation to use. This is always a sticking
point with students. There will be one equation that has all the variables
you’ve listed in the given information, including the unknown variable.
Given information: Equations:
t = .01 s v = at + vi
a = -8000 m/s2
vf = 0 2
2
vi = ?
Solving The Problem
A bullet comes to rest in a tree in .01 seconds, with an acceleration of -8000 m/s2.
What was the bullet’s velocity right before it hit the tree?
t = .01 s v = at + vi
a = -8000 m/s2 0 = (-8000)(.01) + vi
vf = 0 vi = 80 m/s
vi = ?
Solving The Problem
A bullet comes to rest in a tree in .01 seconds, with an acceleration of -8000 m/s2.
How far into the tree did the bullet penetrate?