Final answer:
To solve equations of motion, we identify known variables and the unknown, choose the correct equation, and solve systematically while ensuring units are consistent and the result is reasonable.
Step-by-step explanation:
Solving Equations of Motion
When solving equations of motion, we start by identifying the known variables and what we need to find—our unknown. For each problem, we select the appropriate kinematic or Newton's laws of motion to find a solution. It's crucial to ensure that all units match and to check if the final answer is reasonable within the context of the problem.
Example Problems
- An object starts from rest and accelerates uniformly down a slope. Find its velocity after 5 seconds if the acceleration is 2 m/s2.
- A car moving at 20 m/s decelerates at a rate of 5 m/s2 until it stops. Calculate the distance it covers during this time.
- A ball is thrown vertically upward with an initial speed of 15 m/s. Determine the maximum height it reaches.
- A projectile is launched with an initial velocity of 30 m/s at a 45-degree angle. Calculate the time of flight.
- An object falls from rest with negligible air resistance. Find the distance it falls in 3 seconds.
Each problem requires listing the knowns, identifying the unknowns, selecting the right equation(s), substituting the known values to solve for the unknown, and finally, checking if the answer makes sense.