Solving for Average Acceleration: An Automotive Example

In summary, average acceleration is the rate of change of velocity over a given time interval. It is different from instantaneous acceleration, which is the acceleration at a specific moment in time. The equation for average acceleration is a = (vf - vi) / t, and it is commonly used in automotive examples to measure the efficiency and acceleration capabilities of a vehicle. This can be done through the use of sensors and data collection devices.
  • #1
ganon00
15
0
was wondering which formula I would use to solve this equation...

a car traveling in a straight line has a velocity of +5.0m/s at some instant.
After 4.0seconds, it velocity is +8.0m/s. What is it average acceleration in this time interval?
 
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  • #2
[tex]\bar{a} = \frac{\Delta v}{\Delta t}[/tex]
 
  • #3


To solve for average acceleration, you would use the formula a = (vf - vi)/t, where a is the average acceleration, vf is the final velocity, vi is the initial velocity, and t is the time interval. In this case, the initial velocity (vi) is +5.0m/s, the final velocity (vf) is +8.0m/s, and the time interval (t) is 4.0 seconds. Plugging these values into the formula, we get a = (+8.0m/s - +5.0m/s)/4.0s = +0.75m/s^2. Therefore, the average acceleration of the car in this time interval is +0.75m/s^2. This means that the car is increasing its velocity by 0.75m/s every second.
 

Related to Solving for Average Acceleration: An Automotive Example

1. What is average acceleration?

Average acceleration is the rate of change of velocity over a given time interval. It is calculated by dividing the change in velocity by the change in time.

2. How is average acceleration different from instantaneous acceleration?

Average acceleration is calculated over a specific time interval and represents the overall change in velocity during that time. Instantaneous acceleration, on the other hand, is the acceleration at a specific moment in time.

3. What is the equation for calculating average acceleration?

The equation for average acceleration is: a = (vf - vi) / t, where a is the average acceleration, vf is the final velocity, vi is the initial velocity, and t is the time interval.

4. How is average acceleration used in an automotive example?

In an automotive example, average acceleration can be used to calculate the rate at which a car's velocity changes over a certain time period. This can be useful in determining the efficiency of a car's engine or the acceleration capabilities of a vehicle.

5. How can average acceleration be measured in an automotive example?

Average acceleration can be measured in an automotive example through the use of sensors and data collection devices. These can be placed on the car to gather information about its velocity and acceleration, which can then be used to calculate the average acceleration.

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