How can an object in circular motion be accelerating when it's at the same speed?

In Physics, there are two types of numbers: scalars and vectors. Scalars are just a normal number, as we are used to. Vectors also have a direction associated with them. Thus, variables like temperature and speed are scalars, yet acceleration and weight are vectors.

Because a vector is made up of different parts, one in the x direction, one in the y, if the vector is velocity then these components will change depending on the direction of the object, even if the magnitude of the vector is constant. Because acceleration is the rate of change of the velocity, or the derivative of velocity, this depends upon each component of velocity, thus a change in direction means a change in acceleration.

TT
Answered by Toby T. Physics tutor

2704 Views

See similar Physics IB tutors

Related Physics IB answers

All answers ▸

calculate the velocity of a particle at a certain point in an arbitrary potential given its initial conditions?


If a body is projected from the ground at the angle of 30 degrees to the horizontal with the initial velocity of 20 m/s, what maximum height and range is it going to reach?


How do I do uncertainties properly?


Explain why increase in current results in higher temperature of the wire.


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences