IndietroStep-by-Step Guidance for AP Physics 1 Unit 1 Kinematics and Kinematic Graphs
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Q3. In each figure below, a car’s velocity is shown before and after a short time interval. Rank the magnitude of the change in velocity during the time interval. Explain your reasoning.
Background
Topic: Kinematics – Change in Velocity (Vector Quantities)
This question tests your understanding of how to calculate the change in velocity (Δv) for objects moving in different directions and how to compare the magnitude of these changes.

Key Terms and Formulas:
Velocity (): A vector quantity describing speed and direction.
Change in velocity ():
Magnitude of change:
For opposite directions, add magnitudes; for same direction, subtract.
Step-by-Step Guidance
Examine each scenario (A, B, C, D) and note the direction and magnitude of the car's velocity before and after the interval.
For each, write the initial and final velocity as vectors (positive for right, negative for left).
Calculate the change in velocity for each case using .
Determine the magnitude of the change for each scenario. Remember, if the direction changes, the change is larger.
Rank the scenarios from greatest to least magnitude of change based on your calculations.
Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!
Final Answer:
Ranking from greatest to least magnitude of change in velocity: D > C > A > B.
Explanation: In D, the car reverses direction and increases speed, so the change is largest. In C, the car reverses direction but decreases speed. In A, the car slows down but stays in the same direction. In B, the car stops, so the change is smallest.