SolveTap

SolveTap · Learn the method

Kinematics Calculator

Choose a constant-acceleration equation from three known variables and solve for a selected unknown.

Calculate

Select the unknown, leave its field blank, and enter exactly three other variables. Leave the unused fifth variable blank. Use SI units and one positive direction.

Calculations run in your browser. Numeric inputs are not included in analytics events.

Formula and variables

v = u + at; s = ut + ½at²; v² = u² + 2as; s = ½(u+v)t; s = vt − ½at²

u is initial velocity, v final velocity, a constant acceleration, t elapsed time (nonnegative), and s signed displacement, not total distance.

Worked example

A cart starts at u = 0 m/s and accelerates at 2 m/s² for 5 s. To find v, omit displacement and choose v = u + at. Substitute: v = 0 + 2 × 5 = 10 m/s. Check units: (m/s²) × s = m/s.

When to use this formula

Use SUVAT equations for one-dimensional motion with constant acceleration. They do not apply directly to changing acceleration or to distance accumulated after a reversal of direction.

Common mistakes

Negative velocity is a direction, not an invalid speed. Squared-velocity equations can return positive and negative roots. A quadratic in time can have two valid times; use the physical context.

Why do I have to leave two fields blank?

One is the variable to solve; the other is omitted by the selected equation. Exactly three knowns keeps the task unambiguous about which input set is being used.

Related calculators and resources

Learn the method