Physics Concepts and Vectors

These flashcards cover key concepts including scientific units, vectors, motion, and Newton's laws relevant for exam preparation.

What is the unit of mass in scientific measurements?

Kilogram (kg)

What is the formula for acceleration?

Acceleration = Speed/Time (m/s²)

What does 'Giga' (G) represent in terms of meters?

Giga (G) equals 1 billion meters (10^9), so 5 Gm = 5 billion meters.

How do you convert from miles per hour to meters per second?

Convert seconds to hours by using dimensional analysis; 1 hour = 3600 seconds.

Why do we need vectors in motion analysis?

Vectors provide information about both the magnitude and direction of motion.

What is the basic definition of motion?

Motion is how an object's position (x) changes over time.

State Newton's First Law of Motion.

An object will continue to move at a constant velocity unless acted on by an outside force.

What does it mean for an object to have a constant velocity?

It means the object is moving at the same speed and in the same direction, without changes.

What is a vector in physics?

A mathematical object that gives information about magnitude and direction.

What is the significance of the angle θ in vector analysis?

It indicates the direction of the vector, measured from the positive x-axis.

What is the relationship between distance, speed, and time?

Distance = Speed * Time.

What does the term 'components of a vector' refer to?

The lengths of the vector along the x and y axes.

What happens to the motion of an object when a force acts upon it?

The object's velocity changes, indicating an acceleration.

What happens when the speed of an object is zero?

The object is said to be at rest.

What is the formula for obtaining the magnitude of a vector?

Magnitude V = √(Vx² + Vy²) using Pythagorean theorem.

In vector calculations, why is there a need for two pieces of information?

To specify both magnitude and direction of the vector.