acceleration Definition
the rate at which an object changes its velocity, usually measured in meters per second squared (m/s²).
Using acceleration: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "acceleration" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The car's acceleration was impressive.
Example
The acceleration of the roller coaster made my stomach drop.
Example
The rocket's acceleration was so great that it broke through the Earth's atmosphere.
acceleration Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for acceleration
- quickening
- hastening
- expediting
- speeding up
Antonyms for acceleration
- deceleration
- slowing down
Phrases with acceleration
the acceleration experienced by an object in free fall due to the force of gravity, which is approximately 9.8 m/s² near the Earth's surface
Example
The acceleration due to gravity is the same for all objects regardless of their mass.
the acceleration experienced by an object moving in a circular path, directed towards the center of the circle
Example
The centripetal acceleration of a car going around a curve is what keeps it from sliding off the road.
the acceleration experienced by an object moving in a straight line
Example
The linear acceleration of a train leaving a station is what pushes passengers back into their seats.
Origins of acceleration
from Latin 'acceleratio', from 'accelerare' meaning 'to hasten'
Summary: acceleration in Brief
'Acceleration' [əkˌseləˈreɪʃn] refers to the rate at which an object changes its velocity, typically measured in meters per second squared. It can be experienced in various contexts, such as the acceleration of a car or a rocket. Phrases like 'acceleration due to gravity' and 'centripetal acceleration' denote specific types of acceleration. 'Acceleration' is the opposite of 'deceleration,' and can be described as 'speeding up.'
