Acceleration V Speed Flashcards
What is the definition of acceleration?
Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity with respect to time, considering both magnitude and direction.
What is the rate of change of speed?
It is how the magnitude of velocity (speed) changes over time, without considering direction.
How is acceleration different from the rate of change of speed?
Acceleration considers changes in both the magnitude and direction of velocity, while the rate of change of speed only considers changes in magnitude.
Are acceleration and the rate of change of speed always the same?
No, they are only the same when the object moves in a straight line without changing direction.
When can acceleration occur without a change in speed?
Acceleration can occur without a change in speed when an object is changing direction, such as in circular motion.
What happens to acceleration if an object’s velocity remains constant?
Acceleration is zero because there is no change in velocity.
Can speed change without acceleration?
No, any change in speed involves acceleration, as acceleration measures the rate of change of velocity or speed.
What type of quantity is acceleration?
Acceleration is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.
What type of quantity is speed?
Speed is a scalar quantity, meaning it has magnitude only and no direction.
What happens to the rate of change of speed if an object slows down in a straight line?
The rate of change of speed is negative, as the speed is decreasing. This is also known as deceleration.
