The vehicle accelerates horizontally from rest to 27.8 m s–1 in a time of 4.6 s. The mass of the vehicle is 360 kg and the rider has a mass of 82 kg. 1. Calculate the average acceleration during the 4.6 s time interval.
This question is testing your ability to recognise which equations to use from the formula sheet based on the variables provided.
To start, write down the known variables in the SUVAT fromat:
S (distance travelled): ?
U (initial velocity): 0ms-1 (because it was initially at rest)
V (final velocity): 27.8ms-1
A (acceleration): ?
T (time): 4.6s
First we need to work out the acceleration. In this question we do not need to calculate the distance travelled.
Look through the formula sheet and find the formula that will allow you to calculate the acceleration (A) based on the variables that have been given to us.
A=(V-U)/T
Plug in the values:
A= (27.8-0)/4.6
A= 27.8/4.6
A= 6.04 ms-2
Always include unit in your answer and pay attention in case the question is looking for a specific number of significant figures.
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