How do constant velocity and changing velocity differ?

Question

Multiple select question.

If neither speed nor direction changes, the object moves at constant velocity.

If speed changes but direction does not, the object moves at constant velocity.

If either speed or direction changes, the object moves at constant velocity.

If either speed or direction changes, the object moves at changing velocity.

If the direction changes but the speed does not, the object moves at changing velocity.

Answer 1

The statements can be evaluated as follows:

1. If neither speed nor direction changes, the object moves at constant velocity.

   • True. This is the definition of constant velocity; it means the object is moving at a constant speed in a constant direction.

2. If speed changes but direction does not, the object moves at constant velocity.

   • False. If the speed changes, the velocity changes, regardless of whether the direction is constant.

3. If either speed or direction changes, the object moves at constant velocity.

   • False. If either speed or direction changes, the object does not have constant velocity.

4. If either speed or direction changes, the object moves at changing velocity.

   • True. If either speed or direction changes, the object is experiencing a change in velocity.

5. If the direction changes but the speed does not, the object moves at changing velocity.

   • True. Even if the speed remains constant, a change in direction results in a change in velocity.

In summary, the true statements about the distinction between constant and changing velocity are 1, 4, and 5.