Initial Velocity Calculator
Calculate an object’s initial velocity using different methods (final velocity, distance, time, or acceleration).
Result:
Initial velocity will appear here
Formula used: u = v – at
Where: u = initial velocity, v = final velocity, a = acceleration, t = time
Result:
Initial velocity will appear here
Formula used: u = (s/t) – (at/2)
Where: u = initial velocity, s = distance, t = time, a = acceleration
Result:
Initial velocity will appear here
Formula used: u = √(v² – 2as) or u = √(2as) if v=0
Where: u = initial velocity, v = final velocity, a = acceleration, s = distance
About Initial Velocity
Initial velocity is the velocity of an object at the start of a time period or motion. It’s a fundamental concept in physics used to describe motion under constant acceleration.
Common Applications:
- Projectile motion calculations
- Vehicle acceleration analysis
- Sports physics (throwing, jumping, etc.)
- Engineering design of mechanical systems
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between initial velocity and final velocity?
Initial velocity (u) is the speed and direction of an object at the start of observation, while final velocity (v) is the speed and direction at the end of the observed time period.
Can initial velocity be zero?
Yes, initial velocity can be zero when an object starts from rest. For example, a car starting to move from a complete stop has an initial velocity of 0 m/s.
How does acceleration affect initial velocity?
Acceleration changes velocity over time. If you know the final velocity, acceleration, and time, you can calculate what the initial velocity must have been.