Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
When an object is accelerating, it means that its velocity is changing over time. It can be increasing (positive acceleration) or decreasing (negative acceleration).
Related terms
Speeding Up: When an object's velocity increases over time.
Positive Acceleration: When an object's velocity increases, resulting in positive values for acceleration.
Instantaneous Acceleration: The rate at which an object's velocity changes at a particular moment in time.