Acceleration Calculator
Solve a = (v - u) / t or F = m * a. Three-way kinematic solver plus Newton's 2nd law, with results in m/s^2, g, N, lbf, kg, and lb.
Acceleration Calculator
Relate change in velocity over time. a = (v - u) / t.
Negative values indicate the opposite direction.
Use the same sign convention as the initial velocity.
Must be greater than zero when solving for acceleration.
Acceleration
10 m/s^2
Acceleration
10 m/s^2
In g-units
1.019716 g
Initial velocity
0 m/s
Final velocity
60 m/s
Time
6 s
Frequently Asked Questions about the Acceleration Calculator
What is the formula for acceleration?
Average acceleration is the change in velocity divided by the time over which it changes: a = (v - u) / t, where u is the initial velocity, v is the final velocity, and t is the elapsed time. The SI unit is meters per second squared (m/s^2).
How does this calculator use Newton's second law?
Newton's second law states F = m * a. In Newtonian mode, you can solve for force given mass and acceleration, for mass given force and acceleration, or for acceleration given force and mass. Mass must be positive and you cannot divide by zero acceleration when solving for mass.
Why is acceleration shown in g-units?
One g equals 9.80665 m/s^2, the standard acceleration due to gravity at Earth's surface defined by the CGPM. Expressing acceleration in g-units gives you an intuitive sense of how strong it feels: 1 g matches free fall, a typical car braking hard is around 1 g, and a fighter jet pulling out of a dive may reach 9 g or more.
Can acceleration be negative?
Yes. Negative acceleration means the object is slowing down relative to its direction of motion, also called deceleration. For example, a car going from 20 m/s to 0 m/s in 4 seconds has an acceleration of -5 m/s^2. Negative velocities are also valid and simply indicate the opposite direction.
What units does the calculator accept?
Inputs use SI units: velocity in meters per second, time in seconds, mass in kilograms, force in newtons, and acceleration in meters per second squared. Results are also shown in g-units, pound-force (lbf), and pounds (lb) so you can compare to everyday and US customary measurements.