Motion in One Dimension

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions from the lecture on motion in one dimension, focusing on topics such as distance, displacement, scalar and vector quantities, speed, velocity, acceleration, and the principles of physics problem-solving.

What is the difference between distance and displacement?

Distance is the total path length between two points, while displacement is the difference in position from the start to the end point.

What is the formula for displacement?

Δx = xf − xi, where xf is the final position and xi is the initial position.

Define a scalar quantity.

A scalar quantity is a number or measurement that stands alone without direction.

Define a vector quantity.

A vector quantity is an object (arrow) that has both magnitude (size) and direction.

How do you set up a coordinate system in physics?

You can choose a zero point and determine which direction is positive or negative; this choice should be consistent throughout the problem.

What is the formula for elapsed time?

Δt = tf − ti, where tf is the final time and ti is the initial time.

How do we define speed?

Speed is defined as the ratio of distance to time.

How do we define velocity?

Velocity is defined as the ratio of displacement to time.

What is acceleration?

Acceleration is the change in velocity over time, represented by the formula a = Δv/Δt.

What are the three kinematic quantities mentioned?

Displacement, Velocity, and Acceleration.

What does the force of gravity do to objects in freefall?

It causes objects to accelerate downwards at a constant rate of approximately 9.8 m/s².

Provide one of the kinematic equations of motion.

One example is: xf = xi + vavg * t, where vavg is the average velocity.

What steps are involved in solving a physics problem?

1. Examine the situation, 2. List known values, 3. Identify what needs to be found, 4. Choose appropriate equations, 5. Substitute knowns, and 6. Check the answer for reasonableness.

How can you determine the time it takes for an object to complete a race if you know its distance and speed?

Time can be calculated using t = distance/speed.

What is the significance of the direction of acceleration?

The direction of acceleration indicates the direction in which velocity is changing.

Explain what 'freefall' means in the context of physics.

Freefall refers to the motion of an object falling under the influence of gravity alone, with no other forces acting on it.