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Velocity is speed with direction. We use the symbol “v” to denote velocity, and its unit is metres per second (m/s). As it is a vector quantity it can be a negative value or positive value. For example, it can be 25m/s east. It can be a negative or positive value.
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Acceleration is a change in an object’s velocity over time and is measured in meters per second (m/s^2). This means that an object accelerates when it speeds up, slows down or changes direction.
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To calculate acceleration, we need the initial velocity (starting velocity), the final velocity and the time taken.
A = Acceleration (m/s2) V = Final velocity (m/s) U = Initial velocity (m/s) T = Time taken (s)
Calculating acceleration
Another way to think about it is:
Example: A car increases its speed from 10.0 m/s to 20.0 m/s in 2.0 seconds. What is the acceleration?
Answer: 20 - 10/2 = 5m/s