Question

1. a body, b, is moving at constant speed in a horizontal circular path around point p. which diagram shows the direction of the velocity (v) and the direction of the centripetal force (fₑ) acting on the body?

(1) diagram with fₑ up, v right from b, p at center
(3) diagram with fₑ right towards p from b, v down from b
(2) diagram with fₑ right towards p from b, v left from b?
(4) diagram with fₑ left from b, v down from b
aplusphysics: ucm - circular motion

Explanation:

Step1: Recall velocity direction in circular motion

Velocity of a body in circular motion is tangential to the path at any point.

Step2: Recall centripetal force direction

Centripetal force always acts toward the center of the circle.

Step3: Match with diagrams

Check which diagram has tangential velocity and center-directed force. Diagram (2) shows tangential velocity (v) and centripetal force (Fₙ) toward point P.

Answer:

The diagram labeled (2)