maths

does constant speed mean the same as constant acceleration?

Speed is a scalar force and acceleration is a vector force so they both have constant magnitude (size) but acceleration has a direction. Constant Speed goes the same distance each second but constant acceleration increases the distance by a set amount each second.

(edited 4 years ago)

Reply 2

mqb2766

No. Constant speed would mean zero acceleration. Constant acceleration would mean the speed increases (or decreases, negative acceleration) linearly. Constant speed could be cruising along the motorway at 70mph, so every hour you cover 70 miles. Constant acceleration could be pulling away from a stationary position when the lights turn green with your foot at the same position on the accelerator pedal. As time increases, your speed increases linearly.

Original post by bemily17

does constant speed mean the same as constant acceleration?