Final answer:
Using Newton's Second Law, a = F/m, the 6-kilogram mass dropped with a force of 58.8 newtons results in a rate of acceleration of 9.8 m/s², which is the standard acceleration due to gravity on Earth.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a 6-kilogram mass is dropped, and it strikes the ground with a force of 58.8 newtons, we can use Newton's Second Law of Motion to find the rate of acceleration. Newton's Second Law states that Force (F) is equal to the mass (m) of an object times its acceleration (a), or F = ma. Given that the only force acting on the object during free fall is its weight, which is the force of gravity, we can rearrange the formula to solve for acceleration, a = F/m.
Substituting the given values into this formula yields a = 58.8 N / 6 kg, which simplifies to 9.8 m/s². This is the standard acceleration due to gravity on Earth's surface. Hence, the rate of acceleration for the mass is 9.8 m/s².