Although the speed of a body in uniform circular motion is constant
PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Further mechanics and thermal physics · Further mechanics and thermal physics
Problem
Although the speed of a body in uniform circular motion is constant, it is still said to be accelerating. Answer the following without performing a full algebraic derivation.
(i) Explain why the velocity vector of the body changes continuously even though its speed remains unchanged.
(ii) By referring to the geometry of two consecutive velocity vectors forming an isosceles triangle, qualitatively argue why the magnitude of the acceleration must be proportional to v2 and inversely proportional to r.
(iii) State the direction of this acceleration and justify your answer using the ideas developed in part (ii).