Particle acceleration

Definition

Particle acceleration is the rate of change of velocity experienced by a particle due to an applied force. It is described mathematically by Newton's second law, $F = ma$.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Particle acceleration can be calculated using $a = \frac{F}{m}$, where $a$ is acceleration, $F$ is the net force, and $m$ is the mass.
2. The direction of particle acceleration is always in the direction of the net applied force.
3. In uniform circular motion, particle acceleration points toward the center of the circle and is called centripetal acceleration.
4. Newton's second law implies that for a constant mass, any change in force results in a proportional change in acceleration.
5. Frictional forces can affect particle acceleration by opposing motion and reducing net force.

Review Questions

• How do you calculate particle acceleration given mass and net force?
• What determines the direction of a particle's acceleration?
• What is centripetal acceleration and when does it occur?

Related terms

Newton's Second Law:

$F = ma$, which states that the force acting on an object is equal to its mass times its acceleration.

Centripetal Acceleration:

The inward acceleration experienced by an object moving in a circular path at constant speed.

Net Force: The vector sum of all forces acting on an object, determining its overall motion.