Acceleration, a, in meters per second squared (m/s²), is found by the formula a = (V2 - V1)/t where V1, is the beginning velocity, V2 is the end velocity, and t is time. What is the acceleration, in m/s², of an object with a beginning velocity of 14 m/s and end velocity of 8 m/s over a time of 4 seconds?

Rationale

The acceleration of the object is -1.5 m/s².

To calculate acceleration using the formula a = (V2 - V1)/t, we substitute V1 = 14 m/s, V2 = 8 m/s, and t = 4 s. Plugging in these values gives a = (8 - 14)/4 = -6/4 = -1.5 m/s², indicating that the object is slowing down.

A (1.5) YOUR ANSWER

This choice suggests a positive acceleration, which would imply the object is speeding up. However, since the final velocity (8 m/s) is less than the initial velocity (14 m/s), the acceleration must be negative, indicating a deceleration.

B (-1.5) CORRECT

This is the correct answer, as it accurately reflects the calculation of acceleration. With a beginning velocity of 14 m/s and an end velocity of 8 m/s over 4 seconds, the acceleration is calculated to be -1.5 m/s², indicating the object is slowing down.

C (4.5) YOUR ANSWER

This choice represents an acceleration value that would suggest the object is gaining speed. However, since the final velocity is lower than the initial velocity, the result should be negative, making this option incorrect.

D (-12) YOUR ANSWER

This choice implies a much greater rate of deceleration than is warranted by the given velocities and time period. The calculation clearly shows that the correct deceleration is -1.5 m/s², not -12 m/s², as the velocities and time do not support such a drastic change.

Conclusion

The acceleration of an object can be determined by analyzing the change in velocity over time. In this case, the negative acceleration of -1.5 m/s² indicates the object is decelerating, moving from a higher initial velocity to a lower final velocity. Understanding this concept is crucial in physics, as it helps to describe the motion of objects accurately.

The acceleration of the object is -1.5 m/s².

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