1-D Motion (Constant Velocity)

Description and Assumptions

This model is applicable to a single point particle moving with constant velocity. It is a subclass of the One-Dimensional Motion with Constant Acceleration model defined by the constraint a = 0.

Problem Cues

For pure kinematics problems, the problem will often explicitly state that the velocity is constant, or else some quantitative information will be given (e.g. a linear position versus time plot) that implies the velocity is constant.

Prerequisite Knowledge

Prior Models

None.

Vocabulary

• [position (one-dimensional)]
• velocity

System

Constituents

A single point particle (or a system treated as a point particle with position specified by the center of mass).

State Variables

Time (t), position (x) and velocity (v).

Interactions

Relevant Types

In order for the velocity to be constant, the system must be subject to no net interaction.

Interaction Variables

None.

Model

Law of Change

Diagrammatical Representations

• Position versus time graph.

Relevant Examples