Question

In physics, while __________________ is how fast you're going and in what direction. In other words, velocity is both speed and direction.

A. Acceleration
B. Force
C. Speed
D. Direction

Answer 1

Acceleration is defined as a change in velocity, which can be a change in magnitude or direction, or both.

Step-by-step explanation:

Acceleration, a, is defined as a change in velocity, meaning a change in its magnitude or direction, or both.

Recall that velocity is a vector-it has both magnitude and direction. This means that a change in velocity can be a change in magnitude (or speed), but it can also be a change in direction. For example, if a car turns a corner at constant speed, it is accelerating because its direction is changing. The quicker you turn, the greater the acceleration. So there is an acceleration when velocity changes either in magnitude (an increase or decrease in speed) or in direction, or both.