IB Physics Mechanics: Acceleration

This video tutorial covers the concept of acceleration in physics, explaining it as a vector quantity that represents the rate of change in an object's velocity. It uses real-world examples, such as aircraft and jet skis, to illustrate constant velocity and acceleration. The tutorial also explains how to calculate acceleration using equations and highlights the importance of sign conventions. Additionally, it compares scalars and vectors, emphasizing that acceleration is unique as a vector without a scalar counterpart. The lesson concludes with a sample question to reinforce understanding.

What is the primary difference between velocity and speed?

• Speed is always greater than velocity.

• Speed includes direction, while velocity does not.

• Velocity includes direction, while speed does not.

• Velocity is a scalar, while speed is a vector.

How is acceleration defined in physics?

• The rate of change of velocity.

• The rate of change of speed.

• The rate of change of time.

• The rate of change of distance.

What happens to an object when its velocity changes?

• It moves in a circle.

• It remains stationary.

• It accelerates.

• It decelerates.

What is terminal velocity?

• The speed at which an object falls to the ground.

• The speed at which an object stops accelerating.

• The maximum speed an object can reach.

• The speed at which air resistance equals weight.

Why is it important to establish a sign convention in calculations?

• To avoid errors in the final result.

• To simplify the equations.

• To determine the direction of vectors.

• To ensure calculations are done in the correct units.

What does a negative acceleration indicate?

• The object is speeding up.

• The object is slowing down.

• The object is moving in a positive direction.

• The object is stationary.

What is the difference between uniform and non-uniform acceleration?

• Uniform acceleration changes over time, non-uniform does not.

• Uniform acceleration is only in one direction, non-uniform is in multiple directions.

• Uniform acceleration remains constant, non-uniform changes.

• Uniform acceleration is always zero, non-uniform is not.

How does the ABS system in cars relate to acceleration?

• It decreases acceleration.

• It prevents skidding by controlling acceleration.

• It maintains constant acceleration.

• It increases acceleration.

What is the scalar counterpart of acceleration?

• Time

• Distance

• There is no scalar counterpart.

• Speed

What is the relationship between velocity and acceleration when an object is stationary?

• Velocity is constant, acceleration is constant.

• Velocity is constant, acceleration is zero.

• Velocity is zero, acceleration is zero.

• Velocity is zero, acceleration is constant.