How can the first order kinematic (SUVAT) equations be derived?

We start with the following two observations about an object undergoing constant acceleration. First, its acceleration is equal to the change in its velocity over time, hence,

a=(v-u)/t.

Rearranging gives the first SUVAT equation,

v=u+at.

Secondly, we observe that the average velocity of the object is equal to the distance it travels over time. The average velocity of an object undergoing constant acceleration is the average of its initial and final velocities, hence,

(u+v)/2=s/t.

Substituting the value of v in the first SUVAT equation, we have,

(2u+at)/2=s/t.

Rearranging, we have the second SUVAT equation,

s=ut+(at^2)/2.

To derive the third equation, the original equations are rearranged to give,

v-u=at

and

v+u=2s/t.

These equations can be multiplied to give,

(v+u)(v-u)=2as.

Multiplying out the brackets and rearranging gives the third SUVAT equation,

v^2=u^2+2as.

PT
Answered by Peter T. Physics tutor

14059 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A stationary radium atom decays, emiting an alpha particle. Why is the recoil speed of the nucleus small compared to the alpha particle?


What are the differences between standing waves and progressive waves?


I do 400J of work compressing a gas, but I maintain the same temperature. What is the delta U, Q and W in this case?


A block of ice slides down the full height from one side of a 1m high bowl and up the other side. Assuming frictionless motion and taking g as 9.81ms-2, find the speed of the block at the bottom of the bowl and the height it reaches on the the other side.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning