Question

question 9
acceleration is defined as the rate at which velocity changes, and newtons first law says that acceleration occurs when the forces are unbalanced.
based on your answers to questions 7 & 8, is earth accelerating?
answer:

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the definition of acceleration

Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity. Velocity is a vector quantity (has both magnitude and direction).

Step2: Analyze Earth's motion

Earth is in a curved - path (orbital) motion around the Sun. Since its direction of motion is constantly changing (even if the speed is relatively constant in magnitude), its velocity (a vector) is changing.

Step3: Apply Newton's First Law

According to Newton's First Law, if velocity is changing (i.e., there is an acceleration), there must be an unbalanced force. The gravitational force between the Sun and the Earth is the unbalanced force that causes the change in Earth's velocity (direction change in this case).

Answer:

Yes, Earth is accelerating.