My class notes
Distance
Distance is impossible to define, but we can compare distances. A meter is the standard unit of distance; the variable/parameter for distance is “d”; the unit for meter is “m.”
Time
Time is impossible to define, bet we can measure and compare it. Seconds are the standard unit of time, the unit is “s“ and the variable/parameter is “t.”
Speed
The distance traveled divided by the time it took to travel that distance. Speed=distance/time.
Instantaneous Speed
The speed of an object in motion at any one point in time.
Average Speed
Speed over a long period of time
Reference frame
Lets us define where an object is located relative to other objects, necessary to determine position. Needs a starting point and units of measurement. Not every reference frame is appropriate for every scenario.
Displacement
Change in position; describes how far you are from where you started regardless of how you got there.
Scalar
A quantity that has only magnitude
Vector
A quantity with magnitude and direction
Average Velocity
Displacement divided by elapsed time; can be positive, negative, or zero, depending on the motion with respect to the starting point
Instantaneous Velocity
Velocity of an object at a very brief moment in time; can be positive, negative, or zero depending on the motion
Acceleration
Rate of change of velocity; always telling us how the velocity is changing; unit is m/s^2
Kinematics Equation 1
v0+at=vf