Equations of uniformly accelerated motion

3 marks · Normal

A racing cyclist travels at an initial speed of 5 m/s and accelerates at 2 m/s² along a straight track. Find the distance the cyclist covers while increasing speed to 17 m/s. Show all your working.

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Show answer

66 m (±1)

Must show: Correct substitution: v = 17, u = 5, a = 2, Rearrangement and calculation for s

Common mistakes: Incorrect rearrangement; Using wrong initial/final speed values

Show mark scheme and worked solution

Marking points

M1 · 1 mark · Recognises the appropriate equation and substitutes values correctly.

M2 · 1 mark · Rearranges equation for s. (follow-through)

A1 · 1 mark · Obtains final answer: 66 m (accept answers between 65–67 m). (follow-through)

Worked solution

Use the equation:

Rearrange for s:

Substitute: v = 17 m/s, u = 5 m/s, a = 2 m/s²

The cyclist covers 66 m.