Car Acceleration: Journey from Rest to Speed

What can we learn from a car starting from rest and accelerating uniformly for 8.0 seconds to reach a final speed of 15 m/s?

a. What is the acceleration of the car?

b. What is the average velocity of the car?

c. How far did the car travel during this time?

Answer:

a. The acceleration of the car is 1.875 m/s^2

b. The average velocity of the car is 7.5 m/s

c. The distance travelled by the car is 60 meters

Explanation:

Given the following data:

Initial velocity, u = 0 m/s (car starts from rest)

Final velocity, v = 15 m/s

Time, t = 8.0 s

a. Acceleration:

From the equation v = u + at, we can find the acceleration (a):

15 = 0 + a * 8

a = 1.875 m/s^2

b. Average Velocity:

Using the formula s = (u + v) / 2 * t, we calculate the distance travelled (s):

s = (0 + 15) / 2 * 8

s = 60 meters

Therefore, the average velocity (v0) is s / t = 60 / 8 = 7.5 m/s

c. Distance Travelled:

As calculated in part b, the car travels a total distance of 60 meters during the 8.0 seconds of acceleration.

Understanding the concepts of acceleration, velocity, and distance travelled in this scenario can help us appreciate the physics behind the motion of objects. The calculations provide a quantitative insight into the journey of the car from rest to a final speed, showcasing the relationship between time, velocity, and distance.

By mastering these calculations, we can better understand the world around us and the fundamental principles that govern motion. So, keep exploring the wonders of physics and stay curious about the mysteries of the physical world!