Can Velocity Be Negative When Acceleration Is Positive?

  • Thread starter iMAGICIALoTV
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In summary, negative acceleration is possible when an object is slowing down, an object cannot have constant velocity and changing acceleration at the same time, an object can have zero velocity and non-zero acceleration when changing direction but not speed, an object can have zero acceleration and non-zero velocity when moving at a constant speed, and an object's displacement can be greater than its distance traveled when changing direction.
  • #1
iMAGICIALoTV
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Is it possible for velocity to be negative while the acceleration is positive? If so, then how is it possible?
 
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  • #2
If you are rolling backwards in a car and put your foot on the gas pedal, you'll start accelerating forward instantly but until you come to a stop and start moving forward you'll have a negative velocity.
 
  • #3
Sounds like a homework question...

Any object that has a negative velocity that is slowing down has a positive acceleration.
 

1. Is it possible to have negative acceleration?

Yes, negative acceleration is possible. It occurs when an object is slowing down, such as when a moving car applies its brakes.

2. Is it possible for an object to have constant velocity and changing acceleration?

No, an object cannot have constant velocity and changing acceleration at the same time. If an object's velocity is constant, its acceleration must be zero.

3. Is it possible for an object to have zero velocity and non-zero acceleration?

Yes, it is possible for an object to have zero velocity and non-zero acceleration. This occurs when an object is changing direction but not changing its speed.

4. Is it possible for an object to have zero acceleration and non-zero velocity?

Yes, an object can have zero acceleration and non-zero velocity. This happens when an object is moving at a constant speed in a straight line.

5. Is it possible for an object's displacement to be greater than its distance traveled?

Yes, it is possible for an object's displacement to be greater than its distance traveled. This happens when an object changes direction during its motion, resulting in a shorter distance traveled but a greater displacement.

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