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

2966 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do stars form?


How can we explain the standing waves on a string?


The Heisenberg Uncertainty principle states that ΔxΔp > h/4π. What is represented by the terms Δx, and Δp? What can we say about p if the precise value of x is known? What does this mean for experimental results.


Using Fermat's Principle explain why it makes sense for light be refracted when crossing from one medium into another that has a different refractive index.


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