Very Quick Force-Acceleration Graph Question

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the interpretation of the slope of a force-acceleration graph, specifically what physical quantity it represents in the context of Newton's laws of motion.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to determine the meaning of the slope in terms of mass, while others question whether the slope represents just the units or the actual mass of the object. There is confusion regarding the relationship between force, acceleration, and mass as described by Newton's second law.

Discussion Status

Some participants have confirmed the original poster's interpretation, while others are exploring the distinction between the units of the slope and its physical meaning. The conversation indicates a productive examination of the concepts involved, though there is no explicit consensus on the interpretation.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the definitions and implications of the slope in the context of Newton's second law, indicating a need for clarity on the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration.

bleedblue1234
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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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