What is the formula used to calculate average acceleration?

Prepare for the OAR Mechanical Comprehension Test with comprehensive study materials. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Get ready to excel in your exam!

The formula used to calculate average acceleration is derived from the definition of acceleration, which is the change in velocity over a specific period of time. To express this mathematically, acceleration is calculated by taking the final velocity (the velocity at the end of the time period) and subtracting the initial velocity (the velocity at the start of the time period), and then dividing that change by the time interval during which the change occurred.

This can be expressed as:

Average Acceleration = (Final Velocity - Initial Velocity) / Time

However, when considering average acceleration in simpler terms, if we focus on just the overall change in velocity divided by the time taken, it can still be summarized as velocity divided by time. Thus, the correct expression for average acceleration in this context simplifies to the formula of velocity divided by time.

The other options do not accurately represent the relationship between acceleration and velocity over time. Adding velocity and time, multiplying them, or taking the ratio the other way around does not capture the essence of how acceleration is defined or measured in physics.

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