Which of these four objects or persons is NOT accelerating?
A) bicyclist gradually slowing down on a straight road while coasting toward a stop sign
B) motorcyclist traveling around a circular racetrack at a constant speed
C) apple falling to the ground from an apple tree
D) Olympic swimmer exerting considerable force to maintain a constant speed in a straight line through the water

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acceleration is defined as a change in velocity, which can occur through a change in speed or direction. A bicyclist slowing down (A), a motorcyclist moving in a circle at constant speed (B), and an apple falling (C) are all experiencing acceleration due to changes in speed or direction. The Olympic swimmer (D), despite exerting force, is maintaining a constant speed and direction, and thus is not accelerating.

Which of These Four Objects or Persons Is NOT Accelerating