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Re: acceleration



But if you understand the tangential component, then you understand vectors
and there seems to be no need to go through these extra mental gymnastics.
It is hard enough to keep speed and velocity distinct--especially when just
talking to a class--so I'd much prefer to keep acceleration ALWAYS a vector
quantity. Again, calling on student instincts, it is not that difficult to
get them to think in terms of speeding up as acceleration in the direction
of motion and slowing down as acceleration opposite the direction of motion.
Start there! Yes, this is strictly true only in 1D, but that's where we
start our studies of motion.

Rick

----- Original Message -----
From: "RAUBER, JOEL" <JOEL_RAUBER@SDSTATE.EDU>


I'd add to John's response,

I'm having trouble with this definition of speed. I am accustomed to
velocity having components, x and y or tangential and radial but
forward?

The forward direction in this context is essentially the tangential
direction, so if you understand the tangential component you understand
the
forward component.

Joel R