Kinematics — AP Physics

Motion Equations

Problem Solving With Constant Acceleration

← AP Extra Plots All Lessons Word Problems →
Do Now warm-up prompt

AP Physics — Motion Equations for Problem Solving

Try This at Home!

“30 Seconds with Mr. G” - Number 4, Mindpaint Channel

Mindpaint Channel

IV. Motion Equations for Problem Solving

When an object is moving at a constant acceleration we can use the following equations to find motion information.

Motorcycle rider

A. Constant Accel. Equations

(see Reference Table) — As AP students you will need to memorize all the constant accel. motion equations

1. Average Velocity

V = (Vi + Vf)/2   or   V = Δd/Δt

2. Acceleration

a = (Vf − Vi)/t

Cross multiply & Solve: at = (Vf − Vi)

Add Vi to both sides

Vf = Vi + at

Dragster speeding up

3. Displacement

Δd = Vit + ...?

Δd = Vit + ½at²

Motorcycle rider

4. Final Velocity

Vf² = ...?

Vf² = Vi² + 2aΔd

Word Problems →