Acceleration Formula:
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Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity with respect to time. It measures how quickly an object's speed is changing over a specific time period. Positive acceleration indicates increasing speed, while negative acceleration (deceleration) indicates decreasing speed.
The calculator uses the acceleration formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates acceleration by dividing the change in velocity by the time taken for that change to occur.
Details: Acceleration calculations are fundamental in physics, engineering, and transportation. They help analyze motion, design vehicles, calculate stopping distances, and understand the forces acting on objects in motion.
Tips: Enter final speed and initial speed in meters per second (m/s), and time in seconds (s). All values must be valid (time > 0). The calculator will compute acceleration in meters per second squared (m/s²).
Q1: What is the difference between speed and acceleration?
A: Speed is how fast an object is moving, while acceleration is how quickly the speed is changing over time.
Q2: What does negative acceleration mean?
A: Negative acceleration (deceleration) means the object is slowing down. The speed is decreasing over time.
Q3: What are typical acceleration values?
A: Car acceleration: 2-3 m/s², Free fall gravity: 9.8 m/s², Sports car: 5-8 m/s², Human sprint start: 3-4 m/s².
Q4: Can acceleration be zero?
A: Yes, when an object moves at constant speed (no change in velocity), acceleration is zero.
Q5: How is acceleration related to force?
A: According to Newton's second law: F = m × a, where force equals mass times acceleration.