Physics

This is a kinematic problem where you know the starting speed, final speed (zero), and distance traveled—but not time. The key insight is to use the kinematic equation that doesn't involve time: $v^2 = u^2 + 2as$. Rearrange to solve for $a$, treating the particle's deceleration as a negative acceleration. This equation directly connects velocity, distance, and acceleration without needing the time interval.

This is a kinematic problem where you know the starting speed, final speed (zero), and distance traveled—but not time. The key insight is to use the kinematic equation that doesn't involve time: $v^2 = u^2 + 2as$. Rearrange to solve for $a$, treating the particle's deceleration as a negative acceleration. This equation directly connects velocity, distance, and acceleration without needing the time interval.