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

12845 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain how resonance occurs for a driven oscillating system and describe the effect of damping on the resonant frequency.


An object is let in free fall from a platform 20m high above Earth's surface. Describe the event in terms of energy and thus determine the speed of the object when it hits ground. Air resistance is negligible and gravitational acceleration is constant.


Why do skydivers have a terminal velocity?


Calculate the resistance of a uniform wire of diameter 0.5mm, length 2m and resistivity 1.7x10^-8Ωm.


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning