Usually, if we notice any change in the velocity of an object, it is known to be accelerating. Thus, acceleration is defined as the rate of change of velocity of an object with respect to time. Accelerations are vector quantities meaning they have magnitude and direction. So how do we measure acceleration or what is the unit of acceleration? We will find answers to these questions below.
SI Unit of Acceleration
When we calculate acceleration, it basically involves velocity and time factor and dividing them in terms of units, meters per second [m/s] by second [s]. Moreover, the dividing distance by time twice is equal to dividing distance by the square of time. Therefore, the SI unit of acceleration is the meter per second squared or (m s−2).
Other Acceleration Units
Another frequently used unit is based on acceleration due to gravity. The unit called acceleration due to gravity is represented by a Roman g. However, students have to keep in mind that it is not the same as the natural phenomena called acceleration due to gravity which is represented by an italic g. Most of the time, people refer to change in velocity as “g-force”. Here, the g is a measure of acceleration and not force. Some other units include Foot per second squared, Galileo or gal, orders of magnitude, standard gravity, and plank acceleration.
Related articles:
| Unit Of Force | Unit Of Energy |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between acceleration and momentum?
Acceleration is the difference between final velocity and the initial velocity of an object over a given time period, whereas momentum is the product of mass and velocity.
What is the difference between acceleration and retardation?
Acceleration is a change in velocity divided by the time taken. Whereas retardation is the negative acceleration.
What is the difference between acceleration and velocity?
Acceleration is defined as the change in the velocity of an object with respect to time while velocity is the speed of an object in any particular direction.
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