Question 337 of 949
An object is moving along a straight line with an initial velocity of 10 m/s and experiences a constant acceleration of 2 m/s². What will be the object's velocity after 5 seconds?
- 20 m/s
- 25 m/s
- 30 m/s
- 35 m/s
Correct Answer:
B
Explanation
To determine the object's velocity after 5 seconds, we can use the kinematic equation that relates initial velocity, acceleration, time, and final velocity. The equation is:
\[ v = u + at \]
Where:
- \( v \) = final velocity (what we want to find)
- \( u \) = initial velocity
- \( a \) = acceleration
- \( t \) = time
### Step-by-Step Calculation
1. **Identify the given values:**
- Initial velocity (\( u \)) = 10 m/s
- Acceleration (\( a \)) = 2 m/s²
- Time (\( t \)) = 5 seconds
2. **Substitute the values into the equation:**
\[
v = 10 \, \text{m/s} + (2 \, \text{m/s}^2 \times 5 \, \text{s})
\]
3. **Calculate the acceleration component:**
\[
2 \, \text{m/s}^2 \times 5 \, \text{s} = 10 \, \text{m/s}
\]
4. **Add this to the initial velocity:**
\[
v = 10 \, \text{m/s} + 10 \, \text{m/s} = 20 \, \text{m/s}
\]
### Conclusion
The final velocity of the object after 5 seconds is **20 m/s**. Therefore, the correct option is **A**.
### Explanation of Other Options
- **Option B (25 m/s):** This option is incorrect because it suggests that the final velocity is higher than what we calculated. It may arise from a misunderstanding of how to apply the kinematic equation or miscalculating the acceleration component.
- **Option C (30 m/s):** This option is also incorrect. It implies an even greater increase in velocity than what is justified by the given acceleration and time. It could be a result of incorrectly adding the acceleration multiple times or misunderstanding the relationship between acceleration and time.
- **Option D (35 m/s):** This option is the highest and is incorrect. It suggests an unrealistic increase in velocity, likely due to a miscalculation or misinterpretation of the acceleration's effect over time.
### Common Pitfalls
- **Misunderstanding the formula:** Ensure you are using the correct kinematic equation. The equation \( v = u + at \) is specifically for linear motion with constant acceleration.
- **Forgetting to multiply acceleration by time:** A common mistake is to forget to multiply the acceleration by the time duration, which is crucial for finding the change in velocity.
- **Confusing units:** Always check that the units are consistent (e.g., m/s for velocity and m/s² for acceleration).
### Revision Summary
- Use the kinematic equation \( v = u + at \) to find final velocity.
- Substitute the initial velocity, acceleration, and time correctly.
- Calculate the change in velocity due to acceleration accurately.
- Double-check your calculations to avoid common mistakes.