Editing Acceleration (section)

= Acceleration: Definition and Mathematical Representation =

== Introduction ==
'''Acceleration''' is a core concept in classical mechanics that represents the rate of change of velocity of an object over time. As a vector quantity, it includes both magnitude and direction. Acceleration is central to understanding motion, especially when an object speeds up, slows down, or changes direction.

== Definition ==
The instantaneous acceleration is defined as the derivative of velocity with respect to time:

<math>
\vec{a} = \frac{d\vec{v}}{dt}
</math>

For constant acceleration, it can be expressed as:

<math>
\vec{a} = \frac{\Delta \vec{v}}{\Delta t} = \frac{\vec{v}_f - \vec{v}_i}{t_f - t_i}
</math>

== SI Unit ==
The SI unit of acceleration is:

<math>
1\,\mathrm{m/s^2}
</math>

which stands for "meters per second squared."

== Types of Acceleration ==
* '''Uniform Acceleration''': Constant change in velocity.
* '''Non-uniform Acceleration''': Variable rate of velocity change.
* '''Centripetal Acceleration''': For objects in circular motion:

<math>
a_c = \frac{v^2}{r}
</math>

Where:
* <math>v</math> is the linear speed,
* <math>r</math> is the radius of the circular path.

== Kinematic Equations (for Constant Acceleration) ==
The following equations are used when acceleration is constant:

<math>
v = u + at
</math>

<math>
s = ut + \frac{1}{2}at^2
</math>

<math>
v^2 = u^2 + 2as
</math>

Where:
* <math>u</math> is the initial velocity,
* <math>v</math> is the final velocity,
* <math>a</math> is the acceleration,
* <math>s</math> is the displacement,
* <math>t</math> is time.

== Vector Nature ==
Acceleration is a vector. It not only changes the speed of an object but can also change the direction of its motion. Deceleration is a special case where the acceleration vector is opposite to the velocity vector.

== Applications ==
Acceleration is vital in:
* Vehicle dynamics (acceleration and braking)
* Projectile motion
* Design of amusement park rides
* Analyzing athletic performance

== See Also ==
* [[Velocity]]
* [[Displacement]]
* [[Newton's Laws of Motion]]
* [[Force]]