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Physics
Dec 10, 2025
89
4 pages
Rachael Murphy @writcha
Physics may seem intimidating, but kinematics in one dimension is simply about describing motion along a straight line.... Show more
Motion starts with displacement, a vector quantity that includes both distance and direction. When moving along a single axis, direction is indicated by positive or negative signs, while magnitude represents the length traveled.
Speed focuses on distance only, without considering direction. Average speed equals total distance divided by time and is always positive. This differs from velocity, which accounts for direction and is calculated as displacement divided by time interval .
Instantaneous velocity describes motion at a specific moment, calculated as the limit of Δx/Δt as Δt approaches zero . The units for both speed and velocity are distance per time, typically meters per second .
Quick Tip Remember that when calculating total distance traveled, use speed. When determining how far something has moved from its starting point, use velocity.
When velocity changes, we experience acceleration. Average acceleration measures this change over a time interval, calculated as Aₐᵥg = / = ΔV/Δt. Like velocity, acceleration is a vector quantity, with positive values indicating acceleration in the coordinate direction and negative values indicating the opposite.
Instantaneous acceleration measures the rate of velocity change at a precise moment, found by taking the limit as Δt approaches zero. Graphically, this equals the slope of the velocity-time curve at that moment.
Calculating acceleration requires careful unit conversion. For example, when a plane accelerates from rest to 260 km/hr in 29 seconds, we must first convert to 72.2 m/s, then calculate acceleration as (72.2-0)/29 = 2.5 m/s². Similarly, when a car decelerates from 32 m/s to 6 m/s in 8.5 seconds, its acceleration is (6-32)/8.5 = -3.06 m/s².
Remember Negative acceleration doesn't always mean slowing down—it depends on the direction of motion. A negative acceleration means the velocity is changing in the negative direction.
Mastering kinematic equations gives you powerful tools for predicting motion. The five key equations relate displacement (Δx), initial velocity (Vₒ), final velocity (V), acceleration (a), and time (t). To solve problems, you need to know at least three of these variables.
Follow a structured approach carefully read the problem, list known and unknown values, select the appropriate equation, and solve the algebra. Sometimes solving for an intermediate value (even if not asked for) provides a pathway to the final answer.
For example, to find final velocity given displacement (250 m), time (6.8 s), and acceleration , we can use Δx = Vₒt + ½at² and solve for V. First find Vₒ using V = Vₒ + at, then substitute back. Alternatively, we can use Δx = ½t directly.
Problem-Solving Strategy Start by identifying which kinematic variables you know and which you need to find. This will guide you to the correct equation(s) to use—each equation is missing one of the five variables.
Free fall describes motion under gravity's influence alone. On Earth, all objects accelerate downward at approximately g = 9.8 m/s². This value comes from Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation, where g = GM/r², with G being the gravitational constant .
When solving free fall problems, establish a coordinate system (typically positive downward) and apply the standard kinematic equations with a = g. For example, to find velocity after falling 125 meters from rest, use v² = Vₒ² + 2aΔy = 0² + 2(9.8)(125) = 2,450, giving v = 49.5 m/s.
Graphical analysis provides powerful insights into motion. The slope of a position-time graph gives velocity, while the slope of a velocity-time graph represents acceleration. Conversely, the area under an acceleration-time curve equals the change in velocity, and the area under a velocity-time curve equals displacement.
Visual Connection Think of position, velocity, and acceleration graphs as a family—each one is related to the others through slopes and areas. This relationship makes it possible to reconstruct the complete motion story from any one graph.
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
8
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the fundamental concepts of dynamics, including weight, mass, gravity, acceleration, and Newton's laws of motion. This summary covers key topics such as terminal velocity, speed calculations, and the relationship between force and mass. Ideal for students preparing for exams or seeking to understand the principles of motion and forces.
PhysicsNotes on the differences between distance and displacement, including definitions of position, distance, and displacement, explanations of how to use cardinal directions in physics, vector vs. scalar, and word problem examples.
Physicskinematic terms in physics
PhysicsDefinition and examples
Physics2 dimension kinematics in physics
Physics- Applied Force - Normal Force - Frictional Force - Tension Force - Free body diagrams - Force & Newton's second law
PhysicsApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Rachael Murphy
@writcha
Physics may seem intimidating, but kinematics in one dimension is simply about describing motion along a straight line. These fundamental concepts form the foundation for understanding how objects move, using mathematical equations to predict position, velocity, and acceleration over time.
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Motion starts with displacement, a vector quantity that includes both distance and direction. When moving along a single axis, direction is indicated by positive or negative signs, while magnitude represents the length traveled.
Speed focuses on distance only, without considering direction. Average speed equals total distance divided by time and is always positive. This differs from velocity, which accounts for direction and is calculated as displacement divided by time interval .
Instantaneous velocity describes motion at a specific moment, calculated as the limit of Δx/Δt as Δt approaches zero . The units for both speed and velocity are distance per time, typically meters per second .
Quick Tip: Remember that when calculating total distance traveled, use speed. When determining how far something has moved from its starting point, use velocity.
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
When velocity changes, we experience acceleration. Average acceleration measures this change over a time interval, calculated as Aₐᵥg = / = ΔV/Δt. Like velocity, acceleration is a vector quantity, with positive values indicating acceleration in the coordinate direction and negative values indicating the opposite.
Instantaneous acceleration measures the rate of velocity change at a precise moment, found by taking the limit as Δt approaches zero. Graphically, this equals the slope of the velocity-time curve at that moment.
Calculating acceleration requires careful unit conversion. For example, when a plane accelerates from rest to 260 km/hr in 29 seconds, we must first convert to 72.2 m/s, then calculate acceleration as (72.2-0)/29 = 2.5 m/s². Similarly, when a car decelerates from 32 m/s to 6 m/s in 8.5 seconds, its acceleration is (6-32)/8.5 = -3.06 m/s².
Remember: Negative acceleration doesn't always mean slowing down—it depends on the direction of motion. A negative acceleration means the velocity is changing in the negative direction.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Mastering kinematic equations gives you powerful tools for predicting motion. The five key equations relate displacement (Δx), initial velocity (Vₒ), final velocity (V), acceleration (a), and time (t). To solve problems, you need to know at least three of these variables.
Follow a structured approach: carefully read the problem, list known and unknown values, select the appropriate equation, and solve the algebra. Sometimes solving for an intermediate value (even if not asked for) provides a pathway to the final answer.
For example, to find final velocity given displacement (250 m), time (6.8 s), and acceleration , we can use Δx = Vₒt + ½at² and solve for V. First find Vₒ using V = Vₒ + at, then substitute back. Alternatively, we can use Δx = ½t directly.
Problem-Solving Strategy: Start by identifying which kinematic variables you know and which you need to find. This will guide you to the correct equation(s) to use—each equation is missing one of the five variables.
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Free fall describes motion under gravity's influence alone. On Earth, all objects accelerate downward at approximately g = 9.8 m/s². This value comes from Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation, where g = GM/r², with G being the gravitational constant .
When solving free fall problems, establish a coordinate system (typically positive downward) and apply the standard kinematic equations with a = g. For example, to find velocity after falling 125 meters from rest, use v² = Vₒ² + 2aΔy = 0² + 2(9.8)(125) = 2,450, giving v = 49.5 m/s.
Graphical analysis provides powerful insights into motion. The slope of a position-time graph gives velocity, while the slope of a velocity-time graph represents acceleration. Conversely, the area under an acceleration-time curve equals the change in velocity, and the area under a velocity-time curve equals displacement.
Visual Connection: Think of position, velocity, and acceleration graphs as a family—each one is related to the others through slopes and areas. This relationship makes it possible to reconstruct the complete motion story from any one graph.
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
8
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the fundamental concepts of dynamics, including weight, mass, gravity, acceleration, and Newton's laws of motion. This summary covers key topics such as terminal velocity, speed calculations, and the relationship between force and mass. Ideal for students preparing for exams or seeking to understand the principles of motion and forces.
PhysicsNotes on the differences between distance and displacement, including definitions of position, distance, and displacement, explanations of how to use cardinal directions in physics, vector vs. scalar, and word problem examples.
Physicskinematic terms in physics
PhysicsDefinition and examples
Physics2 dimension kinematics in physics
Physics- Applied Force - Normal Force - Frictional Force - Tension Force - Free body diagrams - Force & Newton's second law
PhysicsApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
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