How to Calculate Acceleration using Force and Mass?
Understanding Acceleration Calculation:
Acceleration is the rate at which the velocity of an object changes over time. It is directly proportional to the net force acting on the object and inversely proportional to its mass. The formula to calculate acceleration is Force = Mass * Acceleration.
Given Data:
Force (F) = 3200 N
Mass (M) = 160 kg
Calculating Acceleration:
Step 1: Use the formula F = M * A, where F is the force, M is the mass, and A is the acceleration.
Step 2: Rearrange the formula to isolate acceleration: A = F/M.
Step 3: Substitute the given values into the formula: A = 3200 N / 160 kg.
Step 4: Calculate the acceleration: A = 20 m/s^2.
Therefore, the acceleration when a 3200-N force is applied to a 160-kg mass is 20 m/s^2.