The Basics of Force and Acceleration Explained

What is Force?

Force is a term in physics used to describe a push or pull on an object. A force can make an object go faster, slow down, remain in shape, or change shape. For example, when you push a shopping cart at the grocery store, you are putting force on the cart which is causing it to get faster and move with you as you are walking!

How is Force Measured?

Force is measured in Newtons, abbreviated “N” for short. A newton is the amount of force needed to accelerate (move) one gram of mass by one centimeter per second squared. Force can also be measured in dynes and pound forces. 

What is Acceleration?

Acceleration is the amount of change of an object’s velocity (speed). For example, when you step on the gas pedal in your car, your car speeds up, and when you step on the brake, your car slows down. When your car speeds up and slows down, it is accelerating!

How is Acceleration Measured?

The standard unit of measure for acceleration is m/s^2, where the speed is in meters per second and time is in seconds. Since acceleration has both a magnitude (size) and a direction, we call it a vector quantity. 

How are Force and Acceleration Related?

Force and acceleration can be related to each other through this equation: 

F = m * a 

F = amount of force applied to object
m = mass of object
a = acceleration of object

Source: https://www.ducksters.com/science/physics/