Imagine sitting on a merry-go-round and riding along as it spins. Assuming you are not grabbing it anywhere and are not moving with respect to the platform,
A) you are not accelerating because you aren't moving on the platform.
B) static friction (directed outwards) causes you to accelerate.
C) static friction (directed inwards) causes you to accelerate.
D) sliding friction makes you accelerate inwards.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When you are moving in a circle, even if your speed is constant, your direction is constantly changing. This change in direction is a change in velocity, indicating acceleration towards the center of the circle. Static friction between you and the platform is what prevents you from sliding off; it acts towards the center of the circle (inwards), providing the centripetal force necessary for circular motion.

Imagine Sitting on a Merry-Go-Round and Riding Along as It