Chapter 2 - Motion

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering key definitions, symbols, formulas, and graph characteristics from Chapter 2 Motion notes.

Linear Motion

Motion that occurs along a straight line path.

Non-Linear Motion

Motion that occurs along a curved path.

Scalar Quantity

A physical quantity defined by magnitude (a number) only, such as time or mass.

Vector Quantity

A physical quantity defined by both magnitude and direction, such as force or weight.

Initial Velocity

The starting velocity of an object, represented by the symbol $u$.

Final Velocity

The ending velocity of an object, represented by the symbol $v$.

Average Speed / Velocity ($V_{avg}$)

The total distance divided by total time ($V_{avg} = \frac{\text{Total Distance}}{\text{Total Time}}$) or the mean of initial and final velocity ($\frac{u + v}{2}$).

Acceleration

The change in velocity per unit time.

Deceleration

Negative acceleration corresponding to a slowdown in speed over time.

Zero Acceleration ($\text{acc} = 0$)

The condition occurring when an object is either stationary (at rest) or moving at a constant speed.

Slope (Gradient)

The vertical change divided by horizontal change on a graph, calculated as $\text{Slope} = \frac{\text{rise}}{\text{run}} = \frac{\Delta y}{\Delta x} = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1}$.

Slope of a Distance-Time Graph

Represents the speed of an object.

Slope of a Speed-Time Graph

Represents the acceleration of an object.

Area Under Graph (Speed-Time Graph)

Represents the distance calculated or traveled by an object.

Distance-Time Graph: Horizontal Line

Indicates that the speed is zero ($\text{Speed} = 0$) and the object is at rest.

Speed-Time Graph: Horizontal Line Above Zero

Indicates constant speed with zero acceleration ($\text{acc} = 0$).

Trapezoid Area Formula for Distance

Formula used to calculate distance from the area under a trapezoidal speed-time graph: $\text{Area} = \frac{b_1 + b_2}{2} \times h$.