Kinematics Anki Deck: Motion Equations (Physics)

What this deck is for

This deck drills instant recall of the kinematics equations — what each symbol means, the units, and the conditions that make each equation valid.

The cards prompt retrieval or elaboration of key concepts and connections. You’ll also get at least one problem with a structured solution that you can self-explain.

This deck does not cover force laws or problem setups. It’s the “equation + meaning + validity” layer you need before problem practice pays off.

Coverage

Core ideas

• Velocity as the derivative of position
• Acceleration as the derivative of velocity
• The constant-acceleration equations (and when they apply)
• Integral forms linking position, velocity, and acceleration

Equations in this deck

Constant-acceleration equations:

• $v = v_0 + at$
• $x = x_0 + v_0 t + \frac{1}{2} a t^2$
• $v^2 = v_0^2 + 2a\Delta x$
• $\Delta x = \frac{1}{2}(v_0 + v)t$

Derivative definitions:

• $v = \frac{dx}{dt}$
• $a = \frac{dv}{dt}$

Integral forms:

• $x = x_0 + \int_0^t v\,dt$
• $v = v_0 + \int_0^t a\,dt$

Common traps in kinematics

Before you drill cards, know the classic failure modes:

• Using constant-accel equations when acceleration varies: The “big four” ($v = v_0 + at$, etc.) require constant $a$. If $a$ changes, use calculus or break into segments.
• Sign errors in 1D motion: Pick a positive direction once and stick with it. If you choose $+x$ rightward and the object moves left, its velocity is negative.
• Confusing $v^2$ equation output: $v^2 = v_0^2 + 2a\Delta x$ gives $v^2$, not $v$. Take the square root and choose the correct sign based on direction.
• Forgetting that $v = dx/dt$ is instantaneous: Average velocity $\bar{v} = \Delta x / \Delta t$ is not the same as instantaneous velocity unless motion is uniform.
• Mixing up displacement and distance: $\Delta x$ can be negative (displacement); distance traveled is always positive.

What this deck does not do

• It does not teach you to solve full mechanics problems by itself.
• It does not cover force models (free-body diagrams, friction, interaction pairs). Use: Forces & Newton’s Laws Anki Deck.

How to use it (so it sticks)

1. Download the deck and import into Anki (File → Import)
2. Study daily — keep it small and consistent
3. When you miss a card, write a one-line rule: “This equation needs constant acceleration.”
4. Apply recall immediately with setup practice: Problem-Solving Strategies

Where this fits in a typical mechanics sequence

• Previous: How to Study Physics with Anki
• Next up: Forces & Newton’s Laws Anki Deck

If you’re using Unisium

Anki is strong at recall. Unisium adds more guided work in the full loop: retrieval practice, elaboration, self-explanation, and problem solving.

• Retrieval Practice
• Elaborative Encoding
• Self-Explanation
• Problem-Solving Strategies

Related guides

• How to Study Physics with Anki
• Forces & Newton’s Laws Anki Deck