Representing Acceleration with Equations and Graphs

"The **kinematic equations** that we will be using apply to conditions of constant acceleration, except where noted, and show how these concepts are related. **Constant acceleration** is acceleration that does not change over time." "Note that this third kinematic equation does not have displacement in it. Therefore, if you do not know the displacement and are not trying to solve for a displacement, this equation might be a good one to use." "This equation is useful for when we do not know, or do not need to know, the time." "When air resistance is not a factor, all objects near Earth's surface fall with an acceleration of about $9.80 \text{ m/s}^2$. ... The value of $9.80 \text{ m/s}^2$ is labeled *g* and is referred to as **acceleration due to gravity**. ... When using *g* for the acceleration *a* in a kinematic equation, it is usually given a negative sign because the acceleration due to gravity is downward." "The *a* vs. *t* plot also shows that acceleration is constant; that is, it does not change with time."