IBHL A_1 Kinematics Summary

A.1 Kinematics — Pre-Quiz Revision
Review how motion is described using quantities, vectors, graphs and constant-acceleration models. The quiz will test interpretation, calculation and visual reasoning.

IB Physics HL
A. Space, time and motion
Pre-Quiz Summary
Visual Revision
Auto-Graded Quiz Ready
1. Learning Roadmap
Focus
Quantities and units
Use SI units consistently. Speed is measured in m s⁻¹ and acceleration in m s⁻².

speed → m s⁻¹ | acceleration → m s⁻²
Focus
Scalars and vectors
Scalars have magnitude only; vectors have magnitude and direction. Velocity and acceleration are vectors.

direction matters
Focus
Motion graphs
Use gradients and areas carefully. A displacement-time gradient gives velocity; a velocity-time area gives displacement.

v-t area → displacement
Focus
Projectile motion
Separate horizontal and vertical components. Time links the two motions.

aₓ = 0 | aᵧ = −g
2. Visual Anchor
A.1 Kinematics at a glance
Use this visual anchor to connect the core idea of the topic to the quiz questions that follow.

time
velocity
area = displacement
3. Key Equations / Core Relationships
Formula cards
Check the meaning of each symbol before substituting values.

v = u + at
s = ut + ½at²
v² = u² + 2as
s = ½(u + v)t
Exam habit
Before calculating, write known quantities, choose a model, check units, and judge whether the final answer is physically reasonable.

known → model → substitute → unit check → reasonableness
4. Common Mistake Alerts
Common mistake
Confusing distance with displacement.

Common mistake
Forgetting that acceleration at the top of vertical motion is still downward.

Common mistake
Using SUVAT equations when acceleration is not constant.

Common mistake
Mixing up gradient and area on motion graphs.

5. Quick Revision Cards
A.1.1 Physical quantities, units and dimensions
A.1.2 Scalars and vectors
A.1.3 Distance and displacement
A.1.4 Speed and velocity
A.1.5 Acceleration
A.1.6 Motion graphs
A.1.7 Uniform acceleration equations
A.1.8 Free fall
A.1.9 Projectile motion
A.1.10 Relative motion
6. Readiness Checklist
✓I can identify scalars and vectors.
✓I can interpret motion graphs.
✓I can choose a suitable SUVAT equation.
✓I can split projectile motion into components.
Ready for the quiz?
If you understand the visual anchor, formula cards and common mistake alerts above, start the A.1 Kinematics quiz.

Recommended use: revise this page first, then complete the Visual/Data quiz and Standard MC quiz.