Uniform Acceleration Equations

Physics: IB Diploma Higher Level, topic 1.1.3

Uniform Acceleration Equations

These four equations describe motion along a straight line with uniform (constant) acceleration or deceleration.

Using the equations

Using the equations

  • You will often be asked questions involving the 5 key concepts of motion in a straight line:
  • s, displacement
  • u, initial velocity
  • v, final velocity
  • a, acceleration
  • t, time
  • Usually you will be given three and asked to calculate a fourth using the 'suvat' equations, which are as follows...
The equations

The equations

  • v=u+atv = u + at
  • s=(u+v2)ts =(\frac{u + v}{2})t
  • s=ut+12at2s = ut + \frac12 at^2
  • v2=u2+2asv^2 = u^2 + 2as

Test yourself on Uniform Acceleration Equations

  • Which equation for uniform acceleration is correct?

  • Which suvat equation does NOT contain displacement?

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