Question

How can I know when I should use the 3 equations of motion in problems?

Answer 1

The three equations of motion are a set of equations that relate the motion of an object to its initial velocity, final velocity, acceleration, displacement, and time. These equations are derived from the laws of motion and are often used to solve problems involving the motion of objects under constant acceleration.

The three equations of motion are:

1. $v=u+at$
2. $s=ut+\frac{1}{2}a{t}^2$
3. $v^2=u^2+2as$

where:

• $s$ represents the displacement or distance traveled by the object
• $u$ represents the initial velocity of the object
• $v$ represents the final velocity of the object
• $a$ represents the constant acceleration experienced by the object
• $t$ represents the time taken for the object to undergo the motion

When to use the equations of motion depends on the information given in the problem and the unknown variable you are trying to solve for. Here are a few scenarios where you can apply these equations:

1. Given initial velocity, final velocity, and time: If you are provided with the initial velocity ($u$), final velocity ($v$), and the time ($t$) taken for the object to undergo the motion, you can use the first equation ($v=u+at$) to solve for the acceleration ($a$).

2. Given initial velocity, acceleration, and time: If you know the initial velocity (<m