Acceleration in Physics

Acceleration means how quickly an object speeds up (or slows down). If something changes its speed or direction, it’s accelerating—even if it’s slowing down (called deceleration).

Formula:

Acceleration = (Final velocity – Initial velocity) ÷ Time

• Velocity is in m/s

• Time is in seconds (s)

• Acceleration is measured in m/s²

  
  

Example:

If a car speeds up from 5 m/s to 15 m/s in 5 seconds:Acceleration = (15 – 5) ÷ 5 = 2 m/s²

Positive vs. Negative Acceleration:

• Positive acceleration: object is speeding up

• Negative acceleration (or deceleration): object is slowing down

  
  

Everyday Examples:

• A bike speeding up when you pedal harder

• A car slowing down when you press the brake

• A ball rolling faster downhill