Kinematics Explained

Kinematics is the branch of physics that describes motion without considering its causes (forces).

Motion Equations

For uniformly accelerated motion:

\[ s = ut + \frac{1}{2}at^2 \]

Where \(s\) is displacement, \(u\) is initial velocity, \(a\) is acceleration, and \(t\) is time.

Example

A ball dropped from rest (\(u = 0\)) with \(a = 9.8 \, \text{m/s}^2\) for 2 seconds:

\[ s = 0 \times 2 + \frac{1}{2}(9.8)(2)^2 = 19.6 \, \text{m} \]

Applications

Kinematics is used in animation (e.g., character movement), robotics, and vehicle design.