Describing Motion 2.1

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding motion in physics, including definitions of scalar and vector quantities, equations of motion, and interpretations of graphical representations.

What are the two types of quantities in physics?

Scalar and Vector

What defines a scalar quantity?

A scalar quantity has only magnitude without direction, e.g., mass.

What is an example of a vector quantity?

Velocity, because it has both magnitude and direction.

What is the difference between distance and displacement?

Distance is a scalar quantity; displacement is a vector quantity that includes direction.

What is the formula for calculating speed?

Speed = Distance / Time.

What characterizes a velocity-time graph?

It shows how an object's velocity varies with time.

How do you calculate acceleration?

Acceleration = Change in velocity / Time taken.

What does a flat line on a distance-time graph represent?

A flat line represents that the object is stationary.

What is the formula for the area under a velocity-time graph representing?

The area represents the displacement or distance travelled by the object.

What is the acceleration due to gravity?

About 10 m/s² in the absence of air resistance.

How is speed measured?

Speed is calculated as the distance travelled by an object every second.

What can be used to measure the acceleration of an object?

The gradient of a velocity-time graph.

What does a steep slope on a velocity-time graph indicate?

A steep slope indicates large acceleration or deceleration.

What equipment can enhance the accuracy of speed measurements?

Light gates can be used for accurate time measurements.

What is the relationship between average speed and varying speeds?

Average speed can be calculated even if an object's speed varies.