FORCE, MASS AND ACCELERATION
2 marks · EasyExplain, using the equation F = m × a, what happens to the acceleration of an object if its mass is doubled while the force remains the same.
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Must show: acceleration is halved, acceleration is inversely proportional to mass when force is constant
Also accept: If mass doubles, acceleration halves.
Common mistakes: acceleration increases; acceleration stays the same
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · States or describes that acceleration is inversely proportional to mass (for constant force).
B2 · 1 mark · States that if the mass is doubled, the acceleration is halved.
Worked solution
According to F = m × a, if the force is kept the same and mass increases, then acceleration decreases.
Specifically, acceleration is inversely proportional to mass when force is constant. So if mass is doubled, acceleration is halved.