Car Acceleration homework questions

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a homework question regarding car acceleration and the interpretation of acceleration in various scenarios. The correct answer is option "d," which states that if a car is slowing down, its acceleration must be negative, as it reflects a decrease in speed. The other options are clarified as incorrect or ambiguous, particularly regarding constant acceleration and directionality. The relationship between velocity and acceleration is emphasized, particularly in the context of negative acceleration.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts related to acceleration and velocity.
  • Familiarity with the equation a = v/t for calculating acceleration.
  • Knowledge of how forces affect motion and acceleration.
  • Ability to interpret scenarios involving constant acceleration and direction.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between velocity and acceleration in detail.
  • Explore scenarios involving constant acceleration and how they apply to real-world examples.
  • Learn about the effects of external forces on motion and acceleration.
  • Review physics problems related to negative acceleration and deceleration.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching motion concepts, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of acceleration and velocity in automotive contexts.

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Homework Statement



Which of the following is true?
a. None of these answers are correct.
b. If a car is traveling eastward, its acceleration is eastward.
c. A particle with constant acceleration can never stop and stay stopped.
d. If a car is slowing down, its acceleration must be negative.


Homework Equations


a = v/t


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not sure what the answer is. I'm thinking it's a, but I'm not really sure.
 
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For a let's try to think of a simple analogy.
a) If a man is jumping upward, his acceleration is upward.
Can you see why this isn't true?

b) A little ambiguous, but can you think of a way a particle can have a constant acceleration, and not be moving?

c) Again, a little ambiguous... but I just picture everything here going in the positive x direction. Just think about how velocity and acceleration relate. acceleration = change in speed divided by change in time? If change in speed is negative, what is acceleration?
 
I'd say it's "d". Slowing down is pretty much negative acceleration.

b: The car might be going east, but it might be traveling at a constant velocity.
c: Outside force to stop it.
 

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