Do the SUVAT equations work for acceleration that changes with time?

It depends on how much it changes. For instance, if some object does undergo as good as makes no difference constant acceleration, then the SUVAT equations apply quite well to the circumstances at play. If there is a non-negligeable time dependency made of the acceleration by the phenomena at play, then the strength of the SUVAT equations is greatly reduced as they are derived from assuming that if an object is in motion, the acceleration of that object is uniform. When the acceleration is indisputably non-uniform then the results drawn from assuming the uniformity that isn't there will be greatly deviated from reality.

Answered by Physics tutor

3028 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does circular motion work?


Explain why objects in free fall drop to the ground at the same speed, regardless of their mass.


What is the critical angle of a beam of light leaving a transparent material with a refractive index of 2?


A student has a mass of 80kg. How much would the student weigh on the surface of the Moon?


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