How do you tackle a general mechanics question?
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always draw free-body diagram. This will clarify the forces that are acting on the object
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Determine whether newton's 1st law or 2nd law that are in play, and use the equations of each.
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If asked about kinematics - related questions, use kinematics equations to answer.
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Related Physics IB answers
All answers ▸How do I make a free body diagram ?
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What is the difference between a vector and a scalar?