MCAT Basics

Translational Motion

MCAT Basics

Show Notes

This podcast addresses translational motion. First, vectors are covered. Then, the variables of acceleration, velocity, and position are discussed. Next, the host discusses the relationship between those three variables. Finally, it covers free fall, projectile motion, air resistance, and friction. The example link for this segment is provided here: Geogebra Example Visit www.HealthAdmissionsIQ.com for more help with the MCAT.

Jump into the conversation: [00:00] MCAT Tutoring from MedSchoolCoach [00:34] Welcome to MCAT Basics [01:06] Topics covered in this episode [01:57] What is translational motion [04:08] Vectors [14:21] Velocity, acceleration, and position/displacement [20:08] The relationship between acceleration, velocity, and position [34:53] Free fall and projectile motion [44:40] The four equations to know for projectile motion [47:20] Air resistance and friction

More from MCAT Basics

Oct 22, 2026

In this episode, we’ll nail down all that is needed for the MCATB in relation to fat and protein metabolism. Two critical processes for gaining energy and maintaining cellular functions in the body. We'll learn about the intricate details of beta-oxidation, where fatty acids are broken down in the mitochondrial matrix to produce energy-rich molecules like NADH, FADH2, and acetyl CoA. From protein catabolism, where proteins are broken down into amino acids that feed into gluconeogenesis and ketosis pathways, to protein anabolism, where these amino acids are incorporated into new proteins. You'll get insights into the role of amino acids in synthesizing other compounds like serotonin and nucleotides. Visit www.HealthAdmissionsIQ.com for more help with the MCAT.

Oct 20, 2026

In this episode, we cover the topic of work and energy. We’ll start off by talking about work, which includes the mathematical and conceptual definitions and the sign convention of work. We’ll also talk a little bit about mechanical advantage and also path dependency. Moving on to energy, we’ll talk about the general definition of energy, we’ll compare and contrast energy in work and the different types of energy that includes kinetic energy, potential energy, thermal energy, and total mechanical energy. Lastly, we’ll talk about energy transfer, specifically heat transfer, and the three types of convection, conduction, and radiation. Visit www.HealthAdmissionsIQ.com for more help with the MCAT.

Oct 15, 2026

In this episode, we’ll cover crucial aspects such as hormones, their origins and mechanisms of action, and the various structures within the endocrine system. We'll also decode complex cell-to-cell communication and distinguish between different hormone types—peptide, protein, steroid, and lipid-derived.

Oct 13, 2026

This episode is packed with essential high-yield information for your MCAT prep, covering the biological, physiological, and psychological aspects of sleep. We’ll explore various sleep theories, like the Memory Consolidation and Brain Plasicticity Theories, and even discuss the controversial “Sleeping When You Die” theory. We’ll also delve into dream theories, including Freud’s interpretations and the Activation Synthesys Hypothesis. Plus, we’ll address common sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy, alongside the effects of different drugs on your sleep patterns.

Oct 8, 2026

In this episode, we're covering the anatomy and physiology of key organs such as the kidneys, liver, skin, lungs, and large intestine, and discuss the crucial role they play in eliminating waste products from our bodies. From the structure of the hepatic lobules in the liver to the sweat glands in our skin and the alveoli in our lungs, we'll cover how each component functions to maintain homeostasis. We'll also delve into the metabolic breakdown processes and the excretion of waste molecules such as urea, electrolytes, and gases like carbon dioxide. Visit www.HealthAdmissionsIQ.com for more help with the MCAT.

See all episodes →