The Problem with Average Acceleration Problems

Abstract

Problems in introductory mechanics concerning the average acceleration of a particle undergoing general rectilinear motion are a source of much confusion to the student. They can be made the source of much light if a clear distinction is made between time averages and space averages. The term “average force” suffers from the same ambiguity and needs similar clarification. This is especially necessary if one wants to express the impulse-momentum and work-energy theorems in terms of an average force.