Acceleration Homework: Solving a Simple Question with Equations

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The discussion revolves around a homework problem related to determining acceleration based on the motion of a cart. The initial responses incorrectly identify the answers as velocities rather than accelerations. Key insights emphasize the importance of understanding the forces acting on the cart and how they relate to changes in motion, as per Newton's laws. The user struggles to correctly identify the direction of acceleration, particularly in the first two scenarios, and seeks clarification on how to approach the problem effectively. Understanding the distinction between acceleration and velocity, along with the role of applied forces, is crucial for solving the homework question.
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Homework Statement



prelab.jpg

Homework Equations


acceleration

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried the answer:
BAEBB

1 looks like its accelerating up
2 looks like its accelerating down
3 the acceleration looks like it is 0 (v=0)
4 the acceleration looks like its going back up
5 the accleration looks like its going up

but it's wrong, what am I doing wrong?
 
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You are confusing acceleration and velocity. All of your answers are for velocity.
 
DaleSpam said:
You are confusing acceleration and velocity. All of your answers are for velocity.

how do i solve it to know which way the acceleration is going
 
Kingsley said:
how do i solve it to know which way the acceleration is going

Think about which way a force is acting on the cart. For example, note that in A the cart is moving upwards, but is there anything actively pushing it that way?

Next think about when the cart changes directions. You can learn from Newton's laws that a force must be applied to change the direction of an object's motion. What can you deduce about the direction of acceleration?
 
I still can't get it I'm thinking about it like aaeba now but it's still wrong in 1 and 2 I think the acceleration would be a because it's both pointing in the negative direction 3 is 0 because it's not moving 4 would be b because it's about to speed up in that direction and 5 is a because it's slowing down

what am I doing wrong?
 
someone please help this question is due in 30 mins
 
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