Instantaneous acceleration

Definition

Instantaneous acceleration is the rate of change of velocity at a specific moment in time. It is mathematically defined as the derivative of velocity with respect to time, usually represented as $a(t) = \frac{dv}{dt}$.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Instantaneous acceleration provides the exact acceleration at any given point in time.
2. It is a vector quantity, having both magnitude and direction.
3. The units for instantaneous acceleration are meters per second squared ($m/s^2$).
4. Graphically, it can be found as the slope of the velocity-time graph at a particular instant.
5. If acceleration is constant, instantaneous acceleration equals average acceleration.

Review Questions

• How does instantaneous acceleration differ from average acceleration?
• What is the mathematical expression for instantaneous acceleration?
• How can you determine instantaneous acceleration from a velocity-time graph?

Related terms

Velocity:

Velocity is the rate of change of displacement with respect to time and includes both speed and direction.

Average Acceleration:

Average acceleration is the change in velocity divided by the total time taken.

Displacement:

Displacement refers to the change in position of an object, taking into account its initial and final positions.