Question

A bike accelerates at a rate of 2.4 meters per second squared when acted on by a force of 50.0 newtons. What will be the rate of acceleration of the same bike if acted on by a force of - 40.0 newtons?

Answer 1

The force acting on the bike is proportional to the product of its mass and acceleration. Thus,

Force = ma

where

m = mass of bike

From the information given,

a = 2.4

F = 50

Thus,

50 = m x 2.4

m = 50/2.4

If the same bike is acted upon by a force of - 40.0 newtons, it means that

- 40 = 50/2.4 * a

Dividing both sides of the equation by 50/2.4, we have

a = - 40/(50/2.4)

a = - 1.92 m/s^2