How to find the average accleration on a velocity time graph

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating average acceleration from a velocity-time graph where the velocity remains constant at -6 m/s from 0 to 5 seconds. The correct formula for average acceleration is Δv/Δt, where Δv represents the change in velocity. Since the velocity does not change during the interval, Δv equals 0, resulting in an average acceleration of 0 m/s². The user incorrectly calculated the average acceleration as -1.2 m/s² due to misunderstanding the concept of change in velocity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, specifically velocity and acceleration
  • Familiarity with the formula for average acceleration: Δv/Δt
  • Knowledge of interpreting velocity-time graphs
  • Basic mathematical skills for performing calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the concept of constant velocity and its implications for acceleration
  • Study how to analyze velocity-time graphs for changes in motion
  • Learn about the relationship between slope and acceleration on a velocity-time graph
  • Practice problems involving average acceleration with varying velocity scenarios
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone seeking to understand the principles of motion, particularly in relation to velocity-time graphs and average acceleration calculations.

wittlebittle
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My physics problem ask me to find the average acceleration on a velocity time graph. On the graph, velocity is at -6 constantly from 0 - 5 s.



I know that an question to use would be average accerlation = delta v/ delta t



The problem is I did that and I still got it incorrect on quest! I did -6 over 5s - 0s
The answer I got was -1.2 please help to tell me what I'm doing wrong and what equation I should be using! Thanks so much!
 
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wittlebittle said:
My physics problem ask me to find the average acceleration on a velocity time graph. On the graph, velocity is at -6 constantly from 0 - 5 s.
I know that an question to use would be average accerlation = delta v/ delta t
The problem is I did that and I still got it incorrect on quest! I did -6 over 5s - 0s
The answer I got was -1.2 please help to tell me what I'm doing wrong and what equation I should be using! Thanks so much!
If the velocity was -6 during that whole period, is there any change in velocity? So what is Δv? (hint: think of acceleration as the slope of a velocity-time graph).

AM
 

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