Question

which graph shows a negative acceleration? position (m) time (s) position (m) time (s)

Explanation:

Step1: Recall acceleration - position - time relation

Acceleration is the second - derivative of position with respect to time. A negative acceleration means the velocity is decreasing. On a position - time graph, the slope represents velocity. If the slope is decreasing over time, it indicates negative acceleration.

Step2: Analyze first graph

The first graph is a straight - line. For a straight - line position - time graph, the slope is constant. A constant slope means constant velocity and zero acceleration.

Step3: Analyze second graph

The second graph is a curve where the slope of the tangent to the curve is decreasing as time increases. As the slope (which is velocity) is decreasing, it shows negative acceleration.

Answer:

The second graph shows a negative acceleration.