Easy Guide for IGCSE, AP and IB Students.
Struggling with kinematics? The equations of motion (SUVAT) are the backbone of mechanics in IGCSE, IB, and AP Physics. This guide breaks them down with simple examples, diagrams, and problem-solving tips.
Most of IGCSE struggle during in the chapter of mechanics and motion. AP and IB students have faced obstacles during studying physics and preparing for exams as well as.
So, we advise you to get rid of any kind of stress and fear. Just follow our instructions and you will see the results by your own: –
1- Study the chapter well if you don’t understand the fundamental concepts and stuck in such stage.
2- First time to study the chapter of mechanics, need to focus on the definitions of (motion, distance, displacement, velocity, acceleration, momentum… )
3- Then restart once more by deeper concentration on mathematical formulae.
4- Try to be familiar with all the mathematical relations in the chapter and how physics quantities are connected together. Like for example: How acceleration and velocity are connected! How can we represent any quantities graphically and get the SLOPE.
5- Then go ahead and start see how solved examples are done, then your turn to move to unsolved problems at the end of the chapter. Then check with your teacher.
The Four Equations:
ν = u + αt ⇒ <¹>
– Final velocity = Initial velocity + (acceleration × time)
– Use when time is known but displacement isn’t.
– Displacement = (Initial velocity × time) + (½ × acceleration × time²)
– Ideal for projectile motion problems.
– Final velocity² = Initial velocity² + (2 × acceleration × displacement)
– No time? Use this!
= × t
– Displacement = Average velocity × time
Example Problem
A car accelerates from 10 m/s to 30 m/s in 5 seconds. Find its displacement.
Solution:
- u = 10 , m/s , v = 30 m/s , t = 5 s
- Use s = {u + v}{t} /2 = {10 + 30}{5} /2 = 100 m
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