Quick Relative Velocity question

The kinematic equations are not useful because they involve acceleration, which can be 0 or non-zero. In summary, the kinematic equation d=vt is the most useful for relative velocity questions that involve constant velocities, since it does not involve acceleration.
  • #1
CyberneticTitan
4
1
The question asks "The kinematic equation d=vt is used in conjunction with relative velocity questions. Explain why the other kinematic equations are not useful for most relative velocity questions."

I assume the answer to this is that most relative velocity questions that I deal with assume that acceleration is 0 (constant velocity) and therefore d=vt is the most useful of them. The answer that I was provided with at the back of the booklet was simply, "a =/= 0".

Thanks for your help!
 
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  • #2
Hi Cybernetic Titan. :welcome:

Your answer sounds right, when most of your relative velocity exercises involve constant velocities.
 

Related to Quick Relative Velocity question

What is relative velocity?

Relative velocity is the velocity of an object or observer with respect to another object or reference point.

How do you calculate relative velocity?

Relative velocity can be calculated by subtracting the velocity of one object from the velocity of the other object, taking into account the direction of motion.

What is the difference between relative velocity and absolute velocity?

Relative velocity is the velocity of an object with respect to another object, while absolute velocity is the velocity of an object with respect to a fixed point or reference frame.

How does relative velocity affect collisions?

Relative velocity plays a crucial role in determining the outcome of collisions between objects. The relative velocities of the objects involved in the collision will determine the magnitude and direction of the forces exerted on each other.

Can relative velocity be negative?

Yes, relative velocity can be negative if the objects or observers are moving in opposite directions.

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