What is the formula to calculate acceleration?

The correct formula to calculate acceleration is derived from Newton's second law of motion. Acceleration is defined as the rate of change of velocity with respect to time. It can also be understood in terms of force and mass by using the relationship where force equals mass multiplied by acceleration (F = ma). Rearranging this formula gives the acceleration as force divided by mass.

In the context of the options provided, option A clearly captures this relationship, showing that acceleration is equal to the net force applied to an object divided by its mass. This reflects the direct relationship between force and acceleration, where a greater force results in greater acceleration, assuming mass remains constant.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the concept of acceleration. For instance, mass divided by force incorrectly suggests a different physical relationship, while speed divided by time and distance divided by velocity do not provide the correct definitions in the context of acceleration, as they mix up other kinematic quantities. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping the fundamental principles of physics.