Solving for Tension in a Mass Slowing Down

[ortegavs]

Homework Statement

Ok so a 25kg mass is lowered by a rope. If the velocity of the mass is decreasing at a rate of 5m/s(squared), what is the tension in the rope?

Homework Equations

T-mg=ma
T-mg= -ma

The Attempt at a Solution

I solved for the 1st equation to get the answer of 375N. My question is conceptual. I reasoned that since the velocity is negative and the mass is slowing down than the acceleration must be positive just like when are car slows down when moving to the left. Is this correct.

 

[Doc Al]

I reasoned that since the velocity is negative and the mass is slowing down than the acceleration must be positive just like when are car slows down when moving to the left. Is this correct.

Perfectly correct.