Initial velocity

Definition

Initial velocity is the velocity of an object at the starting point of a time interval. It is often denoted by $v_0$ or $u$ in equations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Initial velocity can be found using integration if acceleration as a function of time is given.
2. In differential equations, initial conditions typically include the initial velocity.
3. It plays a crucial role in solving problems involving motion described by second-order differential equations.
4. The units for initial velocity are meters per second (m/s) in the SI system.
5. When acceleration is constant, initial velocity is used along with acceleration to determine the position and final velocity at any time.

Review Questions

• How do you represent initial velocity in standard equations?
• What role does initial velocity play in solving second-order differential equations?
• If given an acceleration function and initial conditions, how would you find the initial velocity?

Related terms

Acceleration: The rate of change of velocity with respect to time, often denoted as $a(t)$.

Differential Equation:

An equation that involves one or more functions and their derivatives.

Initial Condition:

$A$ value that specifies the state of a system at the beginning of a process, used to solve differential equations uniquely.