Question

a cyclist going downhill is accelerating at 1.2 m/s². if the final velocity of the cyclist is 16 m/s after 10 seconds, what is the cyclists initial velocity? 4 m/s 12 m/s 18 m/s 20 m/s

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the acceleration formula

The formula for acceleration is \( a = \frac{v_f - v_i}{t} \), where \( a \) is acceleration, \( v_f \) is final velocity, \( v_i \) is initial velocity, and \( t \) is time. We need to solve for \( v_i \). Rearranging the formula gives \( v_i = v_f - a \times t \).

Step2: Substitute the given values

We know that \( a = 1.2 \, \text{m/s}^2 \), \( v_f = 16 \, \text{m/s} \), and \( t = 10 \, \text{s} \). Substituting these into the formula: \( v_i = 16 - (1.2 \times 10) \).

Step3: Calculate the result

First, calculate \( 1.2 \times 10 = 12 \). Then, \( v_i = 16 - 12 = 4 \, \text{m/s} \).

Answer:

A. 4 m/s