Question

current attempt in progress
two cars are traveling at the same constant speed v. car a is moving along a straight section of the road, while b is rounding a circular turn. which statement is true about the acceleration of the cars?
o car a is not accelerating, but car b is accelerating.
o both cars are accelerating.
o the acceleration of both cars is zero, since they are traveling at a constant speed.
o car a is accelerating, but car b is not accelerating.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall acceleration definition

Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity. Velocity is a vector - has magnitude (speed) and direction.

Step2: Analyze car A

Car A moves in a straight - line at constant speed. Its velocity direction doesn't change and speed is constant, so $\vec{a}_A = 0$.

Step3: Analyze car B

Car B moves in a circular path at constant speed. But its velocity direction is constantly changing. Since velocity is changing, there is an acceleration (centripetal acceleration), $\vec{a}_B
eq0$.

Answer:

A. Car A is not accelerating, but car B is accelerating.