Initial Velocity Formula

Initial Velocity is the velocity at time interval t = 0 and it is represented by u. It is the velocity at which the motion starts.

They are four initial velocity formulas:

(1) If time, acceleration and final velocity are provided, the initial velocity is articulated as

u = v – at

(2) If final velocity, acceleration, and distance are provided we make use of:

u² = v² – 2as

(3) If distance, acceleration and time are provided, the initial velocity is

(4) If final velocity, distance and time are provided then initial velocity is

Initial Velocity Solved Examples

Below are some problems based on Initial velocity which may be helpful for you.

Problem 1: Johny completes the bicycle ride with the final velocity of 10 ms^-1 and acceleration 2 ms^-2 within 3s. Calculate the initial velocity.

Answer:

Given:

v (Final velocity) = 10 ms^-1
a (Acceleration) = 2ms^-2
t (Time taken) = 3 s
u (Initial velocity) = ?

v (Final velocity) = u + at

u (Initial velocity) = v – at

u = 10  – (2×3)

u = 4 ms^-1

∴ (Initial velocity) u = 4ms^-1

Problem  2: A man covers a distance of 100 m. If he has a final velocity of 40 ms^-1 and has acceleration of 6 ms^-2. Compute his initial velocity.

Answer:

Given:

Distance s = 100m
(Final velocity) v = 40 ms^-1
(Acceleration) a = 6ms^-2

(Initial velocity) u² = v² – 2as

u²= 1600 – (2 × 6 × 100)

u²= 1600 – 1200

u²= 400 ms^-1

∴ (Initial velocity) u = 20 ms^-1.