Summary and Main Ideas

Summary

Acceleration

• Acceleration is the rate at which velocity changes. In symbols, average acceleration \(\bar{a}\) is
  \(\bar{a} = \cfrac{\Delta v}{\Delta t} = \cfrac{v_{\text{f}} - v_0}{t_{\text{f}} - t_0}\)
• Acceleration is a vector, and thus has a both a magnitude and direction.
• Acceleration can be caused by either a change in the magnitude or the direction of the velocity.
• Instantaneous acceleration \(a\) is the acceleration at a specific instant in time.
• Deceleration is an acceleration with a direction opposite to that of the velocity.

Glossary

Acceleration

the rate of change in velocity; the change in velocity over time

Average acceleration

the change in velocity divided by the time over which it changes

Deceleration

acceleration in the direction opposite to velocity; acceleration that results in a decrease in velocity

Instantaneous acceleration

acceleration at a specific point in time