Understanding Motion Diagrams: Negative vs. Positive Acceleration

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on understanding motion diagrams, specifically differentiating between negative and positive acceleration. Diagram A illustrates negative acceleration, while Diagram B depicts positive acceleration. A key point made is that negative acceleration does not equate to slowing down, as acceleration is a vector quantity with direction. The question of whether Diagram B can be flipped while maintaining its representation of positive acceleration is also raised.

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  • Research the properties of vector quantities in physics
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Homework Statement


The problem is in the attached image


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I understand that the diagram of A is displaying negative acceleration and the diagram of B is displaying positive acceleration. However, I am struggling to find an answer for the question. I'm also wondering if the diagram of B can be flipped around and still represent the same thing. I am admittedly not the best physics student and any help is appreciated. Thank you.
 
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Nitrate said:
diagram of B is displaying positive acceleration.
Acceleration is a vector, it has direction. negative acceleration is not the same as slowing down.
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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