When will you say a body is in (i) uniform acceleration? (ii) non-uniform acceleration?

(i) Uniform Acceleration:
Uniform acceleration refers to the motion of an object where its velocity changes at a constant rate over equal intervals of time. In simpler terms, it means that the object’s speed increases or decreases by the same amount in each equal interval of time. Mathematically, this translates to a consistent change in velocity per unit of time.

Characteristics of Uniform Acceleration:
1. Constant Change in Velocity: In uniform acceleration, the change in velocity remains constant per unit of time.
2. Equal Intervals of Time: The object experiences identical changes in velocity during equal intervals of time.
3. Linear Relationship Between Time and Velocity: The relationship between time and velocity is linear in uniform acceleration scenarios.

Example: An object moving in a straight line under the influence of gravity near the Earth’s surface demonstrates uniform acceleration as its velocity increases by approximately 9.8 m/s every second.

(ii) Non-Uniform Acceleration:
Non-uniform acceleration describes the motion of an object where its velocity changes irregularly, either increasing or decreasing, at a non-constant rate. In this case, the object’s speed changes by different amounts during equal intervals of time.

Characteristics of Non-Uniform Acceleration:
1. Varying Rate of Change in Velocity: In non-uniform acceleration, the change in velocity per unit of time is not consistent.
2. Unequal Intervals of Time: The object experiences different changes in velocity during equal intervals of time.
3. Non-Linear Relationship Between Time and Velocity: The relationship between time and velocity is not linear; it may follow a curve or exhibit varying rates of change.

Example: A car’s motion during its journey where it accelerates, then decelerates, and later accelerates again showcases non-uniform acceleration due to its varying rates of change in velocity over time.

In summary, uniform acceleration demonstrates a consistent and constant change in velocity over time, while non-uniform acceleration showcases irregular changes in velocity, either increasing or decreasing, over equal time intervals.