Does constant speed mean no acceleration?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking whether maintaining a constant speed implies that there is no acceleration involved in the movement. This relates to concepts in physics regarding motion, speed, and acceleration.
Answer
If a body is moving with constant speed in a straight line, then it has no acceleration. However, if the body is moving with constant speed in a circle, it does have acceleration.
If a body is moving with constant speed in a straight line, then it has no acceleration. However, if the body is moving with constant speed in a circle, it does have acceleration due to the change in direction.
Answer for screen readers
If a body is moving with constant speed in a straight line, then it has no acceleration. However, if the body is moving with constant speed in a circle, it does have acceleration due to the change in direction.
More Information
This distinction arises because acceleration measures the change in velocity. While speed is a scalar quantity, velocity is a vector and includes direction. Therefore, a change in direction at constant speed results in acceleration.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing speed with velocity. Remember that acceleration pertains to changes in velocity, which includes direction as well as magnitude.
Sources
- Can a body moving with constant speed have acceleration? - homework.study.com
- Acceleration - The Physics Classroom - physicsclassroom.com
