How can an object accelerate without changing speed?

Acceleration is defined as the rate of change of velocity. Since velocity is a vector quantity (it has both magnitude and direction) defined as speed in a particular direction, any change in either speed or direction of travel is a change in velocity. Acceleration therefore occurs whenever an object changes direction- for example, a car driving around a roundabout is constantly accelerating even if its speed does not change.

EP
Answered by Ellen P. Physics tutor

79324 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How much force is needed to bring a car to a halt over 5 seconds - the car is moving with velocity km/hr and with a mass of 1000kg.


The maximum speed this cyclist can travel on a level road is 14 m/s. How does cycling uphill affect the maximum speed of this cyclist? Explain your answer.


What is the difference between a vector and a scalar quantity?


Explain why a simple electric motor continues to turn in the same direction when there is a current in the coil (6 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning