Motion in One Dimension and Dynamics

This set of flashcards includes key vocabulary and definitions related to motion in one dimension, dynamics, and relevant physical concepts.

Kinematics

The part of dynamics that describes motion without regard to its causes.

Displacement

The change in position of an object, defined as ∆x = xf - xi.

Velocity

A vector quantity that includes both magnitude and direction, providing more information than speed.

Acceleration

The rate of change of velocity over time, calculated as a = ∆v/∆t.

Frame of Reference

A coordinate system that defines starting points and directions for measuring motion.

Average Speed

The total distance traveled divided by the total elapsed time.

Average Velocity

The displacement divided by the time taken, it can be positive or negative based on the direction.

Newton's First Law

An object will remain at rest or in uniform motion unless acted on by a net external force.

Mass vs Weight

Mass is an intrinsic property of matter, while weight is the force of gravity acting on that mass.

Conservative Forces

Forces that do not dissipate mechanical energy. Work done is path independent.

Nonconservative Forces

Forces that do dissipate mechanical energy, such as friction.

Gravitational Potential Energy (PEg)

Work done against gravity to elevate an object, calculated as PEg = mgh.

Impulse

The change in momentum of an object when a force is applied over time.

Momentum

The quantity of motion of an object, measured as the product of its mass and velocity.

Torque

A measure of the force that produces or tends to produce rotation or torsion in a body.

Moment of Inertia

A measure of an object's resistance to changes in its rotational motion.

Angular Momentum

The rotational equivalent of linear momentum, given by L = Iω.

Newton's Second Law

F = ma; the net force acting on an object is equal to the mass of that object multiplied by its acceleration.