Explain why, when the motion of a vehicle consists of separate phases such as (i)…
PHYSICS · Subjective · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials
Problem
Explain why, when the motion of a vehicle consists of separate phases such as (i) acceleration, (ii) constant speed, and (iii) deceleration, the analysis of its journey must be carried out for each phase individually rather than by treating the whole motion with a single set of kinematic variables. In your answer,
(a) identify the physical quantities that remain continuous at the junction of two phases,
(b) state how displacement and time are obtained for the entire journey from the results of each phase, and
(c) discuss one practical advantage of using this segmented approach when planning motorway speed limits or traffic-light timing.