A change in velocity is known as what?

A change in velocity is referred to as acceleration. Acceleration is defined as the rate at which an object changes its velocity over time. This can occur in several ways: an object can speed up, slow down, or change direction. In physics, acceleration is often measured in meters per second squared (m/s²) and is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.

Understanding acceleration is crucial in dynamics, as it explains how forces act upon objects to change their state of motion. For example, if a car is moving and its speed increases or it turns a corner, it is experiencing acceleration. This fundamental concept is key to analyzing motion in various contexts, from everyday scenarios to more complex astronomical movements.