If you walk at 2 m/s in a perfect circle, what is changing?
velocity, acceleration (both are vectors)
When you walk at a constant speed of 2 m/s in a perfect circle, several things are changing:
1. Direction: As you move in a circle, the direction in which you are walking is constantly changing. At each point along the circle, your direction is tangential to the circle. This means that you are constantly turning, or changing your heading, as you move.
2. Velocity: Velocity is a vector quantity that includes both speed and direction. Since your direction is changing while you are moving in a circle, your velocity is also changing. Even though your speed remains constant at 2 m/s, your velocity changes because the direction of your motion is continuously changing.
3. Acceleration: Acceleration is the rate at which velocity changes. Since your velocity is changing due to the change in direction as you walk in a circle, you experience acceleration. This acceleration is referred to as centripetal acceleration and always points toward the center of the circle. It is responsible for keeping you moving in the circular path.
4. Position: Since you are moving in a circular path, your position is continuously changing. As you walk, the distance and direction from your starting point or any reference point on the circle are in constant flux. This change in position also entails a change in displacement, which is a vector measurement of the shortest distance from your starting point to your current position.
In summary, when you walk at 2 m/s in a perfect circle, your direction, velocity, acceleration, and position are all changing.