An object initially at rest experiences an acceleration of 0.281 m/s2 to the South for a time of 5.44 seconds. It then increases its acceleration to 1.43 m/s2 to the South for an additional 2.42 seconds. What is the total distance moved by the object, in units of meters?

12.0 meters

Explanation:

Given:

v₀ = 0 m/s

a₁ = 0.281 m/s²

t₁ = 5.44 s

a₂ = 1.43 m/s²

t₂ = 2.42 s

Find: x

First, find the velocity reached at the end of the first acceleration.

v = at + v₀

v = (0.281 m/s²) (5.44 s) + 0 m/s

v = 1.53 m/s

Next, find the position reached at the end of the first acceleration.

x = x₀ + v₀ t + ½ at²

x = 0 m + (0 m/s) (5.44 s) + ½ (0.281 m/s²) (5.44 s) ²

x = 4.16 m

Finally, find the position reached at the end of the second acceleration.

x = x₀ + v₀ t + ½ at²

x = 4.16 m + (1.53 m/s) (2.42 s) + ½ (1.43 m/s²) (2.42 s) ²

x = 12.0 m