Question

In a uniform circular motion map, what is always true? Check all that apply.

The dots are different distances apart.
Acceleration vectors point in the direction of motion.
Velocity vectors are always perpendicular to the circle.
Acceleration vectors point toward the center of the circle.
Velocity vectors are the same length.

Answer 1

Correct:
- Velocity vectors are always perpendicular to the circle. (In uniform circular motion the velocity is tangent to the circle, i.e. perpendicular to the radius.)
- Acceleration vectors point toward the center of the circle. (Centripetal acceleration.)
- Velocity vectors are the same length. (Speed is constant so all velocity vectors have equal magnitude.)

Incorrect:
- The dots are different distances apart. (With constant speed and equal time intervals the dots are equally spaced along the circle.)
- Acceleration vectors point in the direction of motion. (No — acceleration is perpendicular to the motion, pointing inward.)