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Acceleration Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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acceleration

[əkˌseləˈreɪʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

physics

The rate of change of velocity per unit of time. It is a vector quantity, having both magnitude and direction.

Synonyms

quickening, speeding up, velocity increase.

Examples of usage

  • An object moving in a straight line experiences constant acceleration.
  • The acceleration due to gravity is approximately 9.8 m/s^2.
Context #2 | Noun

general

An increase in the rate or speed of something.

Synonyms

boost, expansion, growth.

Examples of usage

  • The company experienced rapid acceleration in its growth.
  • The new technology led to an acceleration of production.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Physics

  • Acceleration is defined as the change in velocity over time, meaning how quickly something speeds up or slows down.
  • In physics, it is measured in meters per second squared (m/s²), which means how much the speed increases every second.
  • The concept was famously utilized by Isaac Newton in his laws of motion, explaining how forces cause acceleration.

Technology

  • In the context of vehicles, acceleration can significantly impact fuel efficiency and safety, influencing design and engineering.
  • Electric cars often achieve higher acceleration rates than traditional gas vehicles due to instant torque from electric motors.
  • Acceleration rates play a vital role in the development of autonomous vehicles, where quick responsiveness is crucial for safety.

Everyday Life

  • You feel acceleration every time you ride a roller coaster, especially during the quick drops or tight turns.
  • In sports, acceleration can determine the winner in races, where athletes focus on quick starts from a standstill.
  • Acceleration affects how we experience motion in aircraft; rapid changes in speed can cause sensations such as pressure on the body.

Historical Significance

  • The study of acceleration has evolved since ancient Greece, where philosophers first began considering motion and forces.
  • Galileo’s experiments with falling objects laid groundwork for understanding acceleration due to gravity.
  • The invention of the car revolutionized personal transportation and led to innovations in acceleration technology during the 20th century.

Origin of 'acceleration'

The word 'acceleration' originated from the Latin word 'acceleratio', which means a hastening or quickening. The concept of acceleration has been crucial in the field of physics, particularly in understanding motion and forces. The study of acceleration dates back to the works of scientists like Galileo and Newton, who laid the foundation for modern mechanics. Today, acceleration plays a vital role in various fields such as engineering, automotive industry, and space exploration.

See also: accelerate, accelerator.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,866 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.