Acceleration

Acceleration

In this lesson, you will first learn to calculate acceleration and then conceptualize how a given acceleration will affect velocity. Then, you will extend your understanding of motion graphs by learning about velocity-time graphs and recognizing acceleration on both velocity-time and position-time graphs. At the end of the presentation you will work through the simulation below. Click the player to begin.

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To review the relationship between position-time, velocity-time and acceleration-time graphs, work through this acceleration animation by David Harrison at the University of Toronto.  This site will open in a new window. The equations that are displayed below each graph are important and will be further explained in a future lesson.  You should note, however that the position-time graph for constant acceleration includes a t squared term. You should recognize from your math class that the curve that will result is a parabola.

 

Acceleration Practice - Motion Graphs

These problems will lead you through several calculations involving acceleration. The best way to develop a solid understanding of how acceleration is displayed on position-time and velocity-time graphs is to work through a number of examples.  This problem set will help you to build your skills at recognizing positive and negative accelerations on graphs. Click the player to get started.

View a printable version of this interactivity.