Question detail
A cyclist accelerates from an initial velocity of 5 m/s to a final velocity of 15 m/s while covering a distance of 50 m. Calculate the acceleration of the cyclist using the equation a = (v^2 - u^2) / (2s) Explain your answer using Uniform acceleration (HT only) and final velocity.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Forces and motion
Question
A cyclist accelerates from an initial velocity of 5 m/s to a final velocity of 15 m/s while covering a distance of 50 m. Calculate the acceleration of the cyclist using the equation a = (v^2 - u^2) / (2s) Explain your answer using Uniform acceleration (HT only) and final velocity.
Answer
1 m/s²
Explanation
A strong answer should address (HT only) Use v^2 - u^2 = 2as to calculate initial velocity when final velocity, acceleration and distance are known directly. Use the context of Uniform acceleration (HT only) within Forces and motion, then state the relevant forces or motion reasoning with units where needed. The answer is correct when it names the key physics quantity, keeps distance and displacement distinct, and links the conclusion back to the approved learning objective.
Common mistake
Common Mistake in Calculating Initial Velocity
Students often confuse the variables in the equation v^2 - u^2 = 2as, mistakenly using final velocity as initial velocity.
Carefully identify each variable: ensure that final velocity (v) is used correctly and that initial velocity (u) is the unknown being calculated.
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