Physics Homework Statement and Examples: Understanding Velocity and Acceleration

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In summary, the conversation discusses physics questions related to acceleration, velocity, and forces. The first question asks about the direction of the acceleration vector for a rock thrown vertically without air resistance. The correct answer is E. The second question asks which statement is not true for a skydiver falling with constant velocity, and the correct answer is D. The third question asks for examples of an object with zero velocity and non-zero acceleration, and an object with zero acceleration and non-zero velocity. The first example given is a rock thrown upwards, and the second example could be an object moving at a constant speed on a frictionless surface. The conversation also includes a discussion on forces and Newton's second law.
  • #1
euro-ignit3
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Homework Statement



Got a couple of physics question from my class:

1)A rock is thrown vertically upward from the surface of the earth. The rock rises to its maximum height and then falls back towards the surface of the earth. Which of the following statements is true if air resistance is neglected?
A- As the rock rises, the acceleration vector points upward
B- the acceleration of the rock is zero when the rock is at the higest point
C-The speed of the rock always points
D- The velocity and acceleration of the rock always points in the same direction.
E- The acceleration vector always points downward.

2) A skydiver with a weight of 50 N falls with a constant downward velocity after her parachute is deployed. Which Statement is not true concerning the situation?
A- The skydiver is not acceleration
B- The magnitude of the air drag force is 50 N
C- The net force on the skydiver is zero
D- The direction of the air drag force in downward
E- The direction of the weight force is downward

For question 3, can sombody give me some example?

3) Give an example in which an object, at a given instant, will have zero velocity and non-zero acceleration. Give an example in which an object can have zero acceleration and non-zero velocity. In other worlds, you are to give two different examples for this problem.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Its my first physics class and I am having a hard time understanding it...It is not a homework question, its just a question i want to work on.
 
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  • #2
You have to remember something with the direction and magnitude of acceleration: something can be going 0m/s and still have acceleration. In fact, it can have the same acceleration as something going 999999m/s.

For your problem, just because the rock is slowing down when it's thrown up doesn't necessarily mean it's acceleration is changing.

Are you able to figure out all the forces acting on the rock? (Newtons second law?)

For part B) Let's think about each statement:
A) What happens to an objects speed if there's no acceleration?
B) Try setting up a force equation with Newton's second law.
C) Again, Newtons second law
D) This would be a sign issue. Once you figure out all the forces, think about the direction they're going.
E) Of all the forces, which one causes the skydiver to fall?
 
  • #3
bakin said:
You have to remember something with the direction and magnitude of acceleration: something can be going 0m/s and still have acceleration. In fact, it can have the same acceleration as something going 999999m/s.

For your problem, just because the rock is slowing down when it's thrown up doesn't necessarily mean it's acceleration is changing.

Are you able to figure out all the forces acting on the rock? (Newtons second law?)

For part B) Let's think about each statement:
A) What happens to an objects speed if there's no acceleration?
B) Try setting up a force equation with Newton's second law.
C) Again, Newtons second law
D) This would be a sign issue. Once you figure out all the forces, think about the direction they're going.
E) Of all the forces, which one causes the skydiver to fall?

From reading the textbook, i come to Answer #1) E and 2) D...For #3, two example would be 1- an example of zero velocity and non-zero acceleration would be kind of like the question #1 with the rock...as for the second example with zero acceleration and non-zero velocity...?
 
  • #4
The first two are correct, as well as part 1 of number 3, but do you know why?

Something with zero acceleration and non zero gravity; too many to list! Can you think of way something can move with constant velocity?
 

Related to Physics Homework Statement and Examples: Understanding Velocity and Acceleration

1. What is the definition of Physics?

Physics is the branch of science that deals with the study of matter, energy, and their interactions. It involves understanding the fundamental laws and principles that govern the behavior of the universe.

2. How does Physics relate to other sciences?

Physics is considered to be the most fundamental of all sciences because it provides the foundation for understanding other scientific disciplines such as chemistry, biology, and astronomy. Many concepts and principles from physics are used in other areas of science.

3. What are the main branches of Physics?

The main branches of Physics are classical mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, optics, and quantum mechanics. Other subfields include astrophysics, particle physics, and nuclear physics.

4. How is Physics applied in the real world?

Physics has a wide range of applications in various fields such as engineering, medicine, technology, and even sports. It is used to design and develop new technologies, improve medical treatments, and understand natural phenomena such as weather patterns and planetary movements.

5. Why is it important to study Physics?

Studying Physics helps us to better understand the world around us and develop critical thinking skills. It also provides the foundation for many important technologies and advancements that improve our lives. Additionally, studying Physics can lead to exciting careers in a variety of fields.

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