Question 348 of 949
An object moves in a straight line with an initial velocity of 10 m/s and experiences a constant acceleration of 2 m/s². What will be its velocity after 5 seconds?
- 20 m/s
- 25 m/s
- 30 m/s
- 35 m/s
Correct Answer:
B
Explanation
To determine the final velocity of an object moving in a straight line with an initial velocity and constant acceleration, we can use the following kinematic equation:
\[ v = u + at \]
Where:
- \( v \) = final velocity (m/s)
- \( u \) = initial velocity (m/s)
- \( a \) = acceleration (m/s²)
- \( t \) = time (s)
### Step-by-Step Explanation
1. **Identify the Given Values**:
- Initial velocity (\( u \)) = 10 m/s
- Acceleration (\( a \)) = 2 m/s²
- Time (\( t \)) = 5 s
2. **Substitute the Values into the Equation**:
We will substitute the known values into the kinematic equation:
\[
v = 10 \, \text{m/s} + (2 \, \text{m/s}² \times 5 \, \text{s})
\]
3. **Calculate the Acceleration Component**:
First, calculate the product of acceleration and time:
\[
2 \, \text{m/s}² \times 5 \, \text{s} = 10 \, \text{m/s}
\]
4. **Add the Initial Velocity**:
Now, add this result to the initial velocity:
\[
v = 10 \, \text{m/s} + 10 \, \text{m/s} = 20 \, \text{m/s}
\]
5. **Final Result**:
Therefore, the final velocity after 5 seconds is:
\[
v = 20 \, \text{m/s}
\]
### Conclusion
The correct answer is **A. 20 m/s**.
### Explanation of Other Options
- **B. 25 m/s**: This option is incorrect because it suggests an additional 5 m/s increase in velocity that does not correspond to the calculated acceleration over the given time.
- **C. 30 m/s**: This option is also incorrect. It implies an even greater increase in velocity than what is calculated, which does not align with the values provided.
- **D. 35 m/s**: This option is incorrect as well, as it suggests an unrealistic increase in velocity given the initial conditions and the acceleration.
### Common Pitfalls
- **Misunderstanding the Equation**: Students may confuse the kinematic equations or forget to add the initial velocity to the product of acceleration and time.
- **Incorrect Units**: Ensure that all units are consistent (e.g., m/s for velocity and m/s² for acceleration).
- **Neglecting Initial Velocity**: Some may forget to include the initial velocity in their calculations, leading to an incorrect final velocity.
### Revision Summary
- Use the kinematic equation \( v = u + at \) to find final velocity.
- Substitute known values carefully and perform calculations step-by-step.
- Always include the initial velocity in your calculations.
- Check units for consistency to avoid errors.