Acceleration and Changes in Velocity

Vocabulary flashcards covering the concept of acceleration and changes in velocity based on textbook material.

Acceleration

The quantity that describes the rate of change of velocity in a given time interval.

Bullet train velocity behavior

Trains reaching a top speed of about $270\,\text{km/h}$ that spend very little time traveling at top speed because their velocity is usually increasing or decreasing as they slow down for stops.

Gradual stop time interval (shuttle bus)

The $5.0\,\text{s}$ duration during which a shuttle bus slows from $9.0\,\text{m/s}$ to $0\,\text{m/s}$ under normal braking approaching a stop.

Sudden stop time interval (shuttle bus)

The $1.5\,\text{s}$ duration in which a shuttle bus slows from $9.0\,\text{m/s}$ to $0\,\text{m/s}$ when the driver slams on the brakes to avoid a pedestrian.

Effect of time interval on velocity change

The factor that determines whether a change in velocity is experienced as sudden or gradual, influencing passenger comfort and safety even when the magnitude of velocity change is equal.