Quick Question about the acceleration formula

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the acceleration formula a=F*k and the units of the constant k. Participants are exploring the relationship between force, acceleration, and the units involved, particularly in the context of Newton's laws and possibly Hooke's Law.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to determine the units of k by using dimensional analysis and comparing it to known formulas such as Newton's Second Law. Questions are raised about the relationship between k and force, as well as the implications of treating k as a constant in different contexts.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing insights into dimensional analysis and questioning the definitions and relationships between the variables involved. There is a recognition of differing interpretations of the formula and its application, particularly in relation to Hooke's Law.

Contextual Notes

Some participants are referencing specific laws of physics, such as Newton's Second Law and Hooke's Law, which may influence their understanding of the formula and the units of k. There is an indication that the original poster is seeking clarity for a homework problem, which may impose certain constraints on the discussion.

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When you use the formula a=F*k, what are the units of k (such as N, m, s, that kind of thing). I need to know for a problem I have to do for homework, so if you could clear it up for me it would help!
 
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oooo said:
When you use the formula a=F*k, what are the units of k (such as N, m, s, that kind of thing). I need to know for a problem I have to do for homework, so if you could clear it up for me it would help!
Think about it this way, a is ms^-2, and F is N. By the definition of 1 N, 1 N = 1 kg ms^-2
So,
ms^-2 = (X)* kg ms^-2
Where X is the unknown unit of k...
In this case, treat each unit as an algebraic quantity, re-arrange for X and you'll know what the units are... (Dimensional analysis...)

You may ask why I left the numbers out... Well, even if you have 3 N on one side with a being 1 ms^-2 on the other side, we really don't care what the value of k IS in this case, just what kind of a unit it represents...
So yeah.
 
Well, all that I know is that in Newton's Second Law, F=m*a, which is the same as a=F/m. Then, looking at a similar formula using k, I see that a=k/m. Thus I thought that k=F and thus k was in units of Newtons. But, for some reason I was wrong. Am I on the right track?
 
Actually, I think you're referring to "Hooke's Law".
In that case, F = kx... = ma, or a = kx/m... not k/m...
 

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