Final answer:
The first step in solving problems involving linear or angular kinematics is to examine the situation to identify physical principles and determine rotational kinematics is involved. Create a list of known and unknowns, use applicable kinematic equations, and check the solution for reasonableness.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Linear/Angular Kinematics
The first thing you should do when you are dealing with linear or angular kinematics is to examine the situation to determine which physical principles are involved. For angular kinematics, ensure that rotational motion is involved. Next, a comprehensive list of the knowns must be created. This can include time, initial and final velocities, accelerations, or distances for linear motion, and analogous rotational quantities such as angular displacement, angular velocity, and angular acceleration.
Identify the unknown variables you are solving for and consider which kinematic equations will be most applicable based on the known and unknown quantities. It is helpful to draw a simple sketch and to remember that not all information will be numerical; for instance, starting from rest implies an initial velocity of zero. Finally, check your solution to ensure it is reasonable and reflects the physical situation correctly.
If applicable, you may need to apply Newton's second law or relevant kinematic equations from motion along a straight line.