Question

a student applies a constant force to the pedals of a bicycle to travel at a constant speed on a calm day. suddenly, a strong gust of wind blows straight toward the front of the student. which statement describes the motion of the student on the bicycle immediately after the wind started to blow, if the student continues to apply the same constant force to the pedals? a the motion sped up. b the motion reversed. c the motion slowed down. d the motion remained constant.

Explanation:

On a calm day, the student's applied force balanced opposing forces (like air resistance, friction) for constant speed. When wind blows toward the front (same direction as motion), it provides an additional force in the direction of motion. The student still applies the same constant pedaling force. So the net force (pedaling force + wind force - opposing forces) increases in the direction of motion. By Newton's second law ($F = ma$), a net force in the motion direction causes acceleration (speeding up). Reversing (B) is wrong as wind aids motion. Slowing (C) would happen with opposing net force. Constant (D) needs zero net force, but net force now is non - zero (increased forward force). So motion speeds up.

Answer:

A. The motion sped up.