A wheel is rotated about a horizontal axle at a constant angular rate. Next, it is rotated in the opposite direction with the same angular rate. The acceleration at a point on the top of the wheel in the second case as compared to the acceleration in the first case:
A) is in the same direction.
B) is in the opposite direction.
C) is upward.
D) is tangential to the wheel.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The acceleration at a point on the top of the wheel is centripetal and always directed towards the center of the wheel, regardless of the direction of rotation. Thus, it remains in the same direction in both cases.

A Wheel Is Rotated About a Horizontal Axle at a Constant