Kinematics studies motion in relation to time, without taking into account its causes.
To understand the kinematics of a moving object, it is first necessary to define a reference system (also called a frame of reference), which is a reference point for space and time. We must also determine the type of motion involved in a given situation. Uniform Rectilinear Motion (URM) describes a situation where the object does not experience acceleration, while Uniformly Accelerated Rectilinear Motion (UARM) occurs when there is constant acceleration, such as a free falling body. Finally, projectile motion combines horizontal movement at constant speed and vertical free-falling movement.
In kinematics, the equations and graphs specific to an object’s motion constitute modes of representation necessary to make a complete analysis.
The movement of a train (on the left) or the free fall preceding the opening of a parachute (on the right) are movements that can be studied using kinematics.
