linear motion / mechanics flashcards

what is linear motion?

the movement of a body in a straight line where all parts move the same distance in the same direction over the same time

what does linear motion result from?

a direct force being applied to a body, where the force is applied directly to the centre of mass.

what is distance?

the total length of a path covered from start to finish measured in metres

what is displacement?

the shortest straight line route from start to finish

what is meant by speed?

the rate of change in distance

how is speed measured?

speed (m/s) = distance (m) / time (s)

what is velocity?

the rate of change in displacement

how is velocity measured?

velocity (m/s) = displacement (m) / time (s)

what is acceleration?

the rate of change in velocity

how is velocity calculated?

acceleration (m/s/s) = (final velocity - intial velocity (m/s)) / time (s)

what is deceleration?

when the rate of change of velocity is negative or there is a decrease in velocity over time