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Constant Acceleration Equation:
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The constant acceleration equation (v = u + at) calculates the final velocity of an object when it's experiencing constant acceleration. It's one of the fundamental equations of motion in physics, describing how velocity changes over time under uniform acceleration.
The calculator uses the constant acceleration equation:
Where:
Explanation: This equation shows that the final velocity equals the initial velocity plus the product of acceleration and time. It assumes acceleration remains constant throughout the motion.
Details: Calculating final velocity under constant acceleration is essential in physics, engineering, and various real-world applications like vehicle motion analysis, projectile motion, and mechanical systems design.
Tips: Enter initial velocity in m/s, acceleration in m/s², and time in seconds. Time must be a non-negative value. All values can be positive or negative depending on direction.
Q1: What does negative acceleration mean?
A: Negative acceleration (deceleration) means the object is slowing down in the positive direction or speeding up in the negative direction.
Q2: Can this equation be used for non-constant acceleration?
A: No, this equation only applies when acceleration is constant. For variable acceleration, calculus-based methods are required.
Q3: What are typical units for this equation?
A: While SI units (m/s, m/s², s) are most common, any consistent unit system can be used as long as all values use the same units.
Q4: How does this relate to other motion equations?
A: This is one of four standard constant acceleration equations, which also include equations for displacement and final velocity squared.
Q5: What if time is zero?
A: If time is zero, the final velocity equals the initial velocity, as no time has passed for acceleration to change the velocity.