Formula
When acceleration is constant, it is the change in velocity over time:
m/s² = (ending m/s − starting m/s) / seconds
The force page multiplies mass by an acceleration you already have. This page finds the acceleration.
Assumptions
- Both speeds use meters per second.
- Acceleration does not change during the time.
Worked example
From 10 m/s to 30 m/s in 4 s is 5 m/s².
Input definitions
- Starting speed
- The speed at the beginning of the interval.
- Ending speed
- The speed at the end of the interval.
Limitations
This is a classroom calculation. It is not a laboratory procedure, a wiring plan, or a measured instrument reading.
Questions
What if the object slows down?
Enter an ending speed below the start. The result is negative and means slowing in the direction of travel.
Does this include gravity?
Only if that change of speed is what you type. The page does not assume 9.81.