A.1 Kinematics

UNIT SYLLABUS

SL/HL

Exploring motion through displacement, velocity, and acceleration using both graphical and algebraic methods.

1 Key Formulas

Velocity

v = u + at

Displacement

s = ut + \frac{1}{2}at^2

2 Exam Preparation & Topic Explanations

Mastering Projectile Motion

Projectile motion is the motion of an object thrown or projected into the air, subject only to the acceleration of gravity.

Key concepts:

Independence of Motion: The horizontal and vertical components of motion are independent.

Horizontal Motion: No acceleration occurs ( $a_x = 0$ ), so the horizontal velocity ( $v_x$ ) remains constant throughout the flight.

Vertical Motion: Subject to a constant downward acceleration due to gravity ( $a_y = -9.81\, m/s^2$ ).

Time of Flight: Since horizontal and vertical motion are linked by time, finding the time ( $t$ ) in one dimension allows you to solve for displacement in the other.

Pro Exam Strategy

Always split the initial velocity $u$ into components: $u_x = u\cos\theta$ and $u_y = u\sin\theta$ .
At the maximum height, the vertical velocity $v_y$ is always zero.
Remember that the range $R$ is maximum when the launch angle is $45^\circ$ (assuming level ground).
Don't forget to maintain consistent sign conventions for up/down directions.

3 MCQ Practice

Q1. A car accelerates uniformly from rest. Which equation is best to use to find the distance traveled in time t?

$v = u + at$
$s = ut + \frac{1}{2}at^2$
$v^2 = u^2 + 2as$
$p = mv$

4 Short Answer Questions

Formula Booklet →

Every data-booklet equation, searchable.

Simulations →

See this physics in motion.

Daily Question →

Practise one concept a day.

Next unit →

A.2 Forces and momentum

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