Physics: Motion, Speed, Velocity, and Free Fall Concepts

What is the definition of motion in physics?

Motion is relative; an object is moving if its position relative to a fixed point is changing.

What is the equation for speed?

Speed = distance / time.

What units are commonly used to measure speed?

Common units include m/s, km/h, mi/h, and cm/day, with m/s being preferred.

What is instantaneous speed?

Instantaneous speed is the speed of an object at any given instant, often read from a speedometer.

How is average speed calculated?

Average speed = total distance / time interval.

What is the difference between speed and velocity?

Speed is a scalar quantity (how fast), while velocity is a vector quantity (speed with direction).

What causes a change in velocity?

Changes in speed or direction cause a change in velocity.

What is acceleration in physics?

Acceleration is the rate at which velocity changes, calculated as a = Δv / Δt.

What is the acceleration due to gravity?

The acceleration due to gravity is approximately 10 m/s² (more accurately 9.8 m/s²).

What is free fall?

Free fall is motion influenced only by gravity, neglecting air resistance.

How is distance fallen calculated in free fall?

Distance fallen is calculated using the formula d = 1/2 g t².

What happens to an object thrown upward in free fall?

It slows down at 10 m/s² until it reaches a speed of 0 at the highest point, then accelerates downward at 10 m/s².

What is the relationship between speed and time in a speed vs. time graph?

A straight line indicates linear motion, with the slope representing acceleration.

What effect does air resistance have on falling objects?

Objects with large surface areas are slowed by air resistance, while compact objects are less affected.

What is the significance of a vacuum in free fall?

In a vacuum, all objects fall at the same acceleration g, as air resistance is absent.

How is average speed related to distance fallen in free fall?

Average speed determines distance fallen, calculated as d = 1/2 g t².

What is the formula for calculating velocity in free fall?

Velocity in free fall is calculated as v = g t.

What is the difference between acceleration and velocity?

Acceleration is the rate at which velocity changes, while velocity is the speed of an object in a given direction.

What does a steeper slope on a distance vs. time graph indicate?

A steeper slope indicates greater acceleration.

What is the formula for calculating acceleration along a straight line?

Acceleration along a straight line is calculated as a = Δspeed / Δt.

What is the average speed of an object that falls 20 m in 2 seconds?

Average speed = total distance / time interval = 20 m / 2 s = 10 m/s.