Unit One: Kinematics-essential knowledge

What is displacement?

Displacement is the change in position of an object. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.

How is velocity defined?

Velocity is the rate of change of position with time. It is a vector quantity, with both magnitude and direction, determined by a choice of reference frame.

What is acceleration?

Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity with time. Like displacement and velocity, acceleration is a vector quantity with magnitude and direction.

How are changes in displacement, velocity, and acceleration calculated?

Changes in displacement, velocity, and acceleration are calculated by subtracting the initial value from the final value for each respective quantity.

What role does a reference frame play in measuring displacement, velocity, and acceleration?

A choice of reference frame determines the direction and magnitude of displacement, velocity, and acceleration.

What are the three fundamental forces in nature?

The three fundamental forces in nature are the gravitational force, the electroweak force, and the strong force. These forces determine the structure and motion of objects.

How are forces detected in inertial reference frames?

In inertial reference frames, forces are detected by their influence on the motion (specifically the velocity) of an object. Force, like velocity, is a vector quantity.

What is the net force on an object?

The net force is the vector sum of all forces exerted on an object. It determines the change in the motion of the object, with the object's acceleration being proportional to the net force.

How is the acceleration of the center of mass of a system related to the net force and mass?

The acceleration of the center of mass of a system is directly proportional to the net force exerted on it and inversely proportional to the mass of the system

How are force and acceleration related?

Force and acceleration are both vector quantities, with the acceleration of an object being in the same direction as the net force acting on it.

How is the velocity of the center of mass of a system related to its position and acceleration?

The velocity of the center of mass is equal to the rate of change of its position with time, and the acceleration of the center of mass is equal to the rate of change of the center of mass velocity with time.