A car rounds a curve while maintaining constant speed. The correct statement is:
A) The acceleration of the car is zero.
B) No net force acts on the car.
C) The velocity of the car is zero.
D) The velocity of the car is constant.
E) A net force acts upon the car.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Even though the car maintains a constant speed, its direction changes as it rounds the curve. This change in direction means there is a change in velocity, indicating the presence of acceleration (centripetal acceleration). According to Newton's second law, an acceleration requires a net force; hence, a net force acts upon the car.

A Car Rounds a Curve While Maintaining Constant Speed