Acceleration versus time graph

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the characteristics of an acceleration versus time graph for an object thrown upwards, particularly focusing on the nature of the graph during the ascent and descent phases. It touches on theoretical aspects of motion under gravity and the implications of the Inverse Square Law at significant heights.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the acceleration of an object thrown upwards is negative and remains so as it descends, proposing that the acceleration versus time graph would be a straight line parallel to the x-axis on the negative side of the y-axis.
  • Another participant agrees that the graph would be a straight line but notes that the designation of positive or negative acceleration is a matter of convention.
  • A further contribution mentions that at significant heights, the Inverse Square Law would affect the graph, suggesting that the straight line would begin to dip towards the x-axis.
  • One participant acknowledges the previous point about the Inverse Square Law and reflects on their typical context of discussing motion at lower altitudes.
  • Another participant humorously comments on the large radius of curvature of the Earth's surface in relation to architectural and aeronautical considerations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the acceleration versus time graph would be a straight line, but there is a lack of consensus on the implications of the Inverse Square Law and its relevance at different altitudes.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the implications of the Inverse Square Law on the graph's shape at significant heights, nor does it clarify the assumptions regarding the range of motion being considered.

kaaira
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when we throw an object upwards its accelaration is negative and after it reaches the maximum height it comes back to us and during that period it has its accelaration still pointing toward the earth. so does that mean that when we draw a accn time graph, for a body thrown up reaching maximum height and coming back to us, will be a straight line parallel to x-axis on the negative side of y?
 
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The positive/negative is somewhat of a choice (/convention) but a straight line, yes.
 
phinds said:
The positive/negative is somewhat of a choice (/convention) but a straight line, yes.
If you go a really long way up, the Inverse Square Law will start to kick in significantly and the straight line will start to dip towards the 'x axis'.
 
sophiecentaur said:
If you go a really long way up, the Inverse Square Law will start to kick in significantly and the straight line will start to dip towards the 'x axis'.

Good point. Thanks for that addition. I'm used to thinking in terms of problems that talk about something going up for maybe 100 feet.
 
Well, the radius of curvature of the Earth's surface is pretty massive by architectural and aeronautical standards. :D
 

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