I am a bit confused as to whether I should use +9.8 m/s^2 or -9.8m/s^2 when solv

Question

I am a bit confused as to whether I should use +9.8 m/s^2 or -9.8m/s^2 when solving kinematics equations. Through a little researchon line, I have read that it depends on what direction you chooseto be positive y and negative y. This has also confused me. Wouldntthrowing something up always be positive y and wouldnt droppingsomething always be negative y??? How could you interchange them orarrange them however you want?? Will you get the same answer if youpick one value of g and use it consistently or will you have to usethe positive value at certain times and the negative value atothers??

Explanation / Answer

Generally when the objects are throwing upwards (+ y axis)then the acceleration of the objects is ay = + g,because those are moving along positive y-axis. And the object falling downwards (-y axis) then theacceleration of the objects is ay = -g because those aremoving along negative y-axis.

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