Very Quick Force-Acceleration Graph Question

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The slope of a force-acceleration graph represents the mass of an object, calculated as force divided by acceleration (m = F/a). The units of the slope are indeed kilograms (kg), which corresponds to the mass. This relationship is derived from Newton's second law of motion. The confusion arises from distinguishing between the units of the slope and its physical meaning. Ultimately, the slope directly indicates the mass of the object being analyzed.
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Homework Statement



What quantity does the slope of a force-acceleration graph represent?

Homework Equations



N = kg*m/s/s

A=m/s/s

The Attempt at a Solution



Well since the slope = rise/run, and the y-axis is the N and the x-axis is the acceleration, the slope is therefore (kg*m/s/s)/(m/s/s) or simplified just kg.

So the slope represents simply the mass quantity expressed in kg?
 
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yes that is correct.
 
But wouldn't that just be the units of the slope, kg, instead of what the slope actually means? Would the slope mean the mass of the object ... i am totally confused
 
bleedblue1234 said:
But wouldn't that just be the units of the slope, kg, instead of what the slope actually means? Would the slope mean the mass of the object ... i am totally confused

the slope gives the mass of the object. The slope is the same as finding F/a . From Newton's 2nd Law, if F=ma then m=F/a
 
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