If an object going in a circle has a force acting on it then why is it travelling at a constant speed

Velocity is a vector quantity, which means it has a direction and a magnitude. Newtons second law says that force is equal to rate in change of velocity. When an object is travelling in a circle with constant, its velocity is still changing since it's direction of travel is constantly changing. Since it's velocity is changing it experiences a force 

VB
Answered by Vedant B. Physics tutor

1493 Views

See similar Physics IB tutors

Related Physics IB answers

All answers ▸

A ball mass 2kg rests on a slope of angle 60 degrees. If it is stationary, calculate the coefficient of static friction


How do I calculate the speed of the International Space Station moving in a circular orbit around the Earth?


How can I derive the energy of an electron using the electron in a box model?


How do you tackle a general mechanics question?


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