Kinematic Equations
Reference from the original Physics I textbook.
- Kinematic Equations
For one-dimensional motion with constant acceleration, using signed scalar components:
Δx = v₀Δt + ½a(Δt)²;
v² = v₀² + 2aΔx;
v = v₀ + aΔt;
Δx = ½(v + v₀)Δt.
- Related Glossary Terms
Acceleration↗, Displacementⓘ, Kinematic Equations in x-Direction, Velocity
- Index
Chapter 3 - Variables of Motion
Chapter 3 - Variables of Motion
Chapter 3 - Variables of Motion
Chapter 3 - Variables of Motion
Chapter 3 - Variables of Motion
Chapter 3 - FFR - Kepler’s Laws
Chapter 3 - FFR - Kepler’s Laws
Chapter 3 - FFR - Kepler’s Laws
Chapter 3 - FFR - Kepler’s Laws
Reviewed physics notes (1)
These corrections keep the original lesson’s purpose while fixing errors in the source edition.
- Vector squares/products are undefined as written; the standard scalar equations require constant acceleration. — Reference 1
Glossary and deeper reading · 3 refreshers
These editorial refreshers supplement the reading. Definitions and examples are added guidance; original source wording and recorded answers remain in their original context.
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Kinematics
Kinematics describes motion using position, velocity, acceleration, and time without first analyzing its forces. The familiar constant-acceleration equations apply only over intervals in which that acceleration is constant. For example, a ball falling near Earth with negligible air resistance can be modeled with constant vertical acceleration.
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Acceleration
Acceleration is the vector rate of change of velocity with time. It can change an object’s speed, direction, or both, and it is measured in meters per second squared. For example, a satellite moving at constant speed in a circular orbit accelerates toward the center.
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Displacement
Displacement is the vector change in position from the start of an interval to its end. It depends on those endpoints rather than the length or shape of the path traveled. For example, walking around a closed track and returning to the start gives zero displacement but a nonzero distance traveled.