HSC Physics — Module 1
Equations of Motion — Flashcards & Quiz
The HSC Physics Module 1 equations of motion (SUVAT) let you solve uniformly accelerated motion problems given any three of the five variables: displacement (s), initial velocity (u), final velocity (v), acceleration (a) and time (t). The standard set is v = u + at, s = ut + ½ at², v² = u² + 2as, s = ½(u+v)t. You must choose the right equation based on what you know and what you need.
Sample Flashcards
Q1: State the four equations of uniform acceleration (SUVAT).
v = u + at; s = ut + ½at²; v² = u² + 2as; s = ½(u + v)t. Where s = displacement, u = initial velocity, v = final velocity, a = acceleration, t = time. These apply ONLY when acceleration is constant.
Q2: How do you choose which equation of motion to use?
Identify the three known quantities and the unknown from s, u, v, a, t. Choose the equation that contains all three knowns and the unknown: v = u + at (no s), s = ut + ½at² (no v), v² = u² + 2as (no t), s = ½(u+v)t (no a).
Sample Quiz Questions
Q1: The SUVAT equations can only be used when acceleration is constant.
Answer: TRUE
The equations v = u + at, s = ut + ½at², v² = u² + 2as, s = ½(u+v)t are derived assuming constant (uniform) acceleration. For varying acceleration, calculus-based methods are needed.
Related Concepts
Last updated: March 2026 · 2 flashcards · 1 quiz questions