In uniform circular motion, what is the relationship between the instantaneous velocity and the circle?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the relationship between instantaneous velocity and the circular path in uniform circular motion. We need to identify the correct description of the velocity vector's direction relative to the circle.
Answer
The instantaneous velocity is tangent to the circle.
In uniform circular motion, the instantaneous velocity is always tangent to the circle at any given point and perpendicular to the radius at that point.
Answer for screen readers
In uniform circular motion, the instantaneous velocity is always tangent to the circle at any given point and perpendicular to the radius at that point.
More Information
The direction of the instantaneous velocity is constantly changing, but its magnitude (speed) remains constant in uniform circular motion.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse velocity and speed. In uniform circular motion, speed is constant, but velocity is not because its direction changes.
Sources
- In uniform circular motion, how is the average velocity equal ... - Quora - quora.com
- Velocity of a Circular Motion - Physics Bootcamp - physicsbootcamp.org
- In uniform circular motion, the direction of instantaneous ... - testbook.com
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
