SUVAT Question (from ENGAA 2019 Paper)

Thread starter TomK
Start date Oct 17, 2020
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Paper Suvat

In summary, SUVAT is a set of equations used in physics to solve problems involving motion with constant acceleration. It stands for displacement (s), initial velocity (u), final velocity (v), acceleration (a), and time (t). To use SUVAT equations, you need to identify known variables and select the appropriate equation to solve for the unknown variable. SUVAT equations can only be used in situations with uniform acceleration and no external forces. They cannot be used in all types of motion, as other equations and methods must be used for non-constant acceleration. While SUVAT equations can provide reasonably accurate results for simple situations, they may not be accurate for more complex scenarios due to their simplified assumptions.

Oct 17, 2020

TomK

Homework Statement: ENGAA Question

Relevant Equations: SUVAT equations

The correct answer is 'C'. I don't understand why my working is wrong. What is the optimal way to do a question like this?

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Oct 17, 2020

gneill

Mentor

We can't judge your working if you don't show it. Please detail your attempt at solution.

Oct 17, 2020

TomK

The OP has both pictures.

Oct 17, 2020

haruspex

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

Insights Author

Gold Member

You seem to have misread the question. The road sign was passed at t=0.

Oct 18, 2020

TomK

Thank you for pointing that out. I did it again and got the right answer.

1. What is the SUVAT equation?

The SUVAT equation is a formula used in physics to calculate the displacement (S), initial velocity (U), final velocity (V), acceleration (A), and time (T) of an object's motion. It is commonly used in kinematics problems.

2. How do I use the SUVAT equation to solve a problem?

To use the SUVAT equation, you need to identify the known variables and plug them into the appropriate places in the equation. Then, you can solve for the unknown variable by rearranging the equation. It is important to pay attention to the units of measurement and use consistent units throughout the equation.

3. Can the SUVAT equation be used for any type of motion?

No, the SUVAT equation is only applicable to objects moving with constant acceleration. This means that the acceleration must remain constant throughout the motion. If the acceleration is changing, a different equation, such as the kinematic equations, must be used.

4. Is the SUVAT equation only used in one-dimensional motion?

No, the SUVAT equation can be used in both one-dimensional (straight line) and two-dimensional (curved) motion. However, in two-dimensional motion, the equation must be applied separately for each dimension.

5. Are there any limitations to the SUVAT equation?

Yes, the SUVAT equation assumes that there are no external forces acting on the object besides the initial velocity and acceleration. It also assumes that the acceleration remains constant throughout the motion. In real-world situations, these assumptions may not always hold true, so the results may not be entirely accurate.