Math Problem Statement

A go-kart at rest begins to accelerate at 1.77 m/s². It drives for 2.33 s. How far does the go-kart travel in that time?

Solution

To solve this problem, we'll use the following kinematic equation, which relates distance traveled Δx\Delta x to acceleration aa, time tt, and initial velocity v0v_0:

Δx=v0t+12at2\Delta x = v_0 t + \frac{1}{2} a t^2

Given that:

  • The go-kart starts from rest, so v0=0v_0 = 0 m/s.
  • The acceleration a=1.77m/s2a = 1.77 \, \text{m/s}^2.
  • The time t=2.33st = 2.33 \, \text{s}.

Substituting these values into the equation:

Δx=02.33+121.77(2.33)2\Delta x = 0 \cdot 2.33 + \frac{1}{2} \cdot 1.77 \cdot (2.33)^2

Now let's calculate the value:

Δx=121.772.332\Delta x = \frac{1}{2} \cdot 1.77 \cdot 2.33^2

Δx=0.8855.4289\Delta x = 0.885 \cdot 5.4289

Δx4.8054m\Delta x \approx 4.8054 \, \text{m}

So, the go-kart travels approximately 4.81 meters during the 2.33 seconds.

Would you like further details or have any questions?

Here are some related questions to explore:

  1. How would the distance change if the acceleration were doubled?
  2. What if the go-kart had an initial velocity? How would that affect the distance?
  3. How would you calculate the final velocity of the go-kart after 2.33 seconds?
  4. What would be the distance if the time was doubled while keeping the same acceleration?
  5. How can you use the same formula to find the time if the distance and acceleration are known?

Tip: Remember that kinematic equations assume constant acceleration. If acceleration changes, more complex calculations are required.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Kinematics
Linear Motion
Physics

Formulas

Δx = v₀t + ½at²

Theorems

Kinematic Equations for Uniform Acceleration

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12