If north is the positive direction, which situation involves positive velocity and negative acceleration?
Correct answer: C. A car slowing down as it moves northward
- A. A car speeding up as it moves southward
- B. A car moving southward at a constant speed
- C. A car slowing down as it moves northward
- D. A car slowing down as it moves southward
Explanation
The rate of change of velocity with respect to time is known as acceleration. Negative acceleration means a decrease in velocity with respect to time. If a car is moving northward and slowing down, the displacement will be along the north (positive), so the velocity will be positive until it gets stopped. As the car is slowing down, the acceleration will be negative. Hence, the correct option is C.
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About Acceleration
Acceleration measures the rate at which velocity changes with time, including changes in speed, direction or both. Work includes average and instantaneous acceleration, the relation a = Δv/Δt, uniform acceleration equations, and interpreting velocity time and displacement time graphs, with acceleration carefully distinguished from velocity.
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