Why is an object that moves in a circular path accelerating when it has constant speed?

Think about the definition of acceleration - it is the rate of change of velocity. Your statement that the object's speed is constant is correct, can you think about why the object's velocity isn't constant? Velocity is a vector which means it has a direction as well as a magnitude, and the object's velocity is changing directiion (constantly) as it moves in a circle, therefore the rate of change of velocity = acceleration is non zero.

IS
Answered by Inigo S. Physics tutor

2345 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A ball is rolled, travelling 10 m north in 5s, then 10 m east in 10s. What is the total distance and average speed of the ball? What is the total displacement and average velocity of the ball?


State Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction


An object has a mass of 10kg and sits on a slope with an angle of elevation of 45 degrees. work out the reaction force of the object to the slope and the force acting down the slope. (3/4 marks)


If a wire loop moves at constant speed into a region where there is a magnetic field, why is a current induced in the wire?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning