Name/Period/Date:________________________ AP Physics 1

Chapter 2: Reading Quiz

P. 21-32

Directions: Answer each question with a short but complete response. Use appropriate reasoning when
necessary.

1. On Pg. 21, Giancoli gives a brief description of the terms kinematics and dynamics which both
fall under the umbrella of mechanics. How does he describe kinematics vs. dynamics?

Kinematics is the term used to describe how objects move and dynamics is the explanation as to why
objects move the way they do, making it deal primarily with force.

2. In section 2-1, you are introduced to the term displacement, how may that differ from the
distance an object has travelled?
Displacement is the direct distance from the starting point. This means an object could have traveled
300m, but at some point, if the object changes directions, then the displacement would change. Then,
if the object moves 200m east and then 100m west, the displacement would be 100m from the
starting point.
3. In section 2-2 Giancoli discusses average speed and average velocity. Explain how an object
could have an average speed that is non-zero, but an average velocity that is zero.

An object could have an average speed that is nonzero and an average velocity that is zero, if it had
travelled a distance without moving from its starting position. Primarily, this is due to average velocity
being displacement (distance away from starting position) over time, while average speed is distance
over time.

4. In section 2-4 Giancoli introduces the term “average acceleration.” How does he define it? (An
equation is acceptable)

V = velocity
T = time

(v2 – v1)/(t2-t1) = Δv/Δt