When an object moves with uniform speed in a circular orbit, its centripetal acceleration must be directed:

Correct answer: B. Towards the centre of the circle

  • A. Along the direction of motion
  • B. Towards the centre of the circle
  • C. Perpendicular to the center of the circle
  • D. Away from the centre of the circle

Explanation

Centripetal acceleration is the acceleration directed towards the center of a circular path. When an object moves with uniform speed in a circular orbit, the centripetal acceleration is crucial in keeping the object in its circular path. It prevents the object from moving in a straight line tangent to the circle by continuously changing its direction towards the center. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Towards the centre of the circle.' The other options are incorrect because they do not align with the concept of centripetal acceleration in circular motion.

Written and checked by , contributorLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? [email protected]

About Force and Motion

Displacement, velocity and acceleration describe motion, including the horizontal and vertical components of projectile motion. The chapter connects these quantities with Newton's laws, momentum and impulse, then applies conservation of momentum to collisions, distinguishing elastic collisions from inelastic ones.

Practise Force and Motion

1,416 free Force and Motion MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Physics questions like this

Physics is on 16 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Force and Motion questions