Vectors & Motion

Vector addition, equations of motion in 1D

Vectors and Motion in One Dimension

Vectors have both magnitude and direction (displacement, velocity, acceleration, force). Scalars have only magnitude (distance, speed, time). Equations of motion: v = u + at, s = ut + 0.5at squared, v squared = u squared + 2as.

Example

Worked Example

A car accelerates from rest (u = 0) at 2 m/s squared for 10 s. Final velocity: v = 0 + 2(10) = 20 m/s. Displacement: s = 0(10) + 0.5(2)(100) = 100 m. Always define a positive direction and use sign conventions.

Note

Exam Tip

Draw a diagram showing the positive direction. List known and unknown quantities before choosing an equation. Deceleration is negative acceleration. Check units throughout.

Key Vocabulary

VectorA quantity with both magnitude and direction

DisplacementThe change in position measured in a straight line from start to end

AccelerationThe rate of change of velocity, measured in m/s squared

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