Two-Stage Motion
Part of the Mechanics section of Coddy's Physics journey. Lesson 40 of 94.
Many motions come in stages: a push and then a slide. Each stage has its own forces, so its own constant acceleration.
v1 = v0 + a1 t1, v = v1 + a2 t
The velocity at the end of stage 1 is the starting velocity of stage 2.
Each stage is a straight line with its own slope; they meet at the hand-over velocity.
Challenge
A 50 kg sled starts from rest. A rope pulls it forward with 120 N for 5 s while friction holds it back with 20 N; then the rope is let go. Taking forward as positive, find the time t_2 the sled slides before it stops.
Try it yourself
Test yourselfThis lesson includes a short quiz. Start the lesson to answer it and track your progress.
All lessons in Mechanics
1Vectors and Newton's Laws
Right TrianglesWhat is a Vector?Adding VectorsAxes and DirectionsVector ComponentsForces Around UsFriction and TensionNewton's First LawNewton's Second LawNewton's Third LawRecap - Net Force2Friction
What is Friction?Static FrictionKinetic FrictionFriction and Newton's LawsRecap - Sliding Crate3Inclined Planes
Forces on an InclineGravity ComponentsFrictionless InclineIncline with FrictionWill It Slide?Recap - Ramp Challenge6Projectile Motion
Independent AxesHorizontal LaunchLaunch at an AngleRange and Max HeightRecap - Hit the Target9Work and Energy
WorkKinetic EnergyWork-Energy TheoremGravitational PEConservation of EnergyPowerRecap - Roller Coaster12Impulse and Momentum
MomentumImpulseConservation of MomentumElastic CollisionsInelastic CollisionsRecap - Air Track15Simple Harmonic Motion
What is SHM?Mass on a SpringThe PendulumSHM GraphsEnergy in SHMRecap - Oscillator