Moving in a Straight Line—Kinematics and Vectors, Part I

  1. Introduction

    As we begin our study of mechanics, we need to know the definitions of some of the fundamental concepts we will use. In the next three lessons we will review the definitions of linear position, velocity and acceleration and define basic relationships between these quantities. We will investigate the intimate relationship between translational and rotational motion. Finally, we need to show how coordinate systems and vectors are powerful tools in describing motion. The brief introduction to these concepts will provide a framework for all of mechanics.

  2. Objectives

    The student will review definitions of velocity, acceleration, and learn the basic kinematic expressions that describe translational motion.

  3. Materials

    No materials required for this session other than notebooks and pencils.

  4. Vocabulary
  5. Presentation

    This lesson tends primarily to a lecture format. Make every effort to get the students involved and helping with the mathematics. Introduce velocity and acceleration. Show the position and velocity equations and hint at their derivation. Derive the position, velocity, and acceleration equation.

    Kinematics is the branch of classical mechanics that describes the motion of points, bodies (objects) and systems of bodies (groups of objects) without consideration of the causes of motion. All the information below is fundamental kinematics.

    Definitions of velocity, acceleration in the translational paradigm.

    definition of linear velocity
    definition of linear acceleration

    Predicted positions and velocities under constant acceleration or constant velocity if no acceleration is present.

    position as a function of velocity
    velocity as a function of acceleration
    position as a function of acceleration
    velocity as a function of acceleration and position
  6. Evaluation

    There are lots of evaluation questions available in HS algebra books. Pick a few appropriate quesitons. This section would really benefit from a study session after school.