What is the Magnitude of Acceleration?

In summary, the magnitude of acceleration is the measurement of the rate at which an object's velocity changes over time. It is calculated by dividing the change in velocity by the change in time, and is a vector quantity that includes both magnitude and direction. This differs from acceleration, which is a vector quantity that includes both magnitude and direction. The magnitude of acceleration is related to Newton's Second Law of Motion, which states that it is directly proportional to the net force acting on the object and inversely proportional to its mass. Additionally, the magnitude of acceleration can be negative, indicating a decrease in velocity or deceleration.
  • #1
rachael
55
0
what does "what is the magnitude of the accelaration" means?



thank you
 
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  • #2
Do you know what a vector is?

If not, then "magnitude of the acceleration" means the absolute value of the acceleration.
 
  • #3
i don't still get it
could you do a simple example for me?
is when you use pythagros theorem to find the magnitude?
 
  • #4
If there was an acceleration of 4m/s forwards, then the magnitude would just be the 4. If you have been given it in vector form (e.g. 4i + 3j[/j]) then Pythagorus would have to be used.
 
  • #5
thank you...
 

1. What is the definition of magnitude of acceleration?

The magnitude of acceleration is the measurement of the rate at which an object's velocity changes over time. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude (size) and direction.

2. How is magnitude of acceleration calculated?

Magnitude of acceleration is calculated by dividing the change in velocity by the change in time. This can be expressed as a = Δv/Δt, where a is the acceleration, Δv is the change in velocity, and Δt is the change in time.

3. What is the difference between magnitude of acceleration and acceleration?

The main difference between magnitude of acceleration and acceleration is that acceleration is a vector quantity that includes both magnitude and direction, while magnitude of acceleration only refers to the size or numerical value of acceleration.

4. How is magnitude of acceleration related to Newton's Second Law of Motion?

According to Newton's Second Law of Motion, the magnitude of acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on the object and inversely proportional to its mass. This can be expressed as a = F/m, where a is the magnitude of acceleration, F is the net force, and m is the mass of the object.

5. Can magnitude of acceleration be negative?

Yes, magnitude of acceleration can be negative. This indicates a decrease in velocity, or a deceleration. Negative acceleration can also be referred to as retardation or deceleration.

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