When you apply a constant force to an object does the object move at a constant velocity or does it’s velocity increase? Explain why this occurs using your understanding of acceleration/force/gravity
F = ma
since F is nonzero, a is nonzero, so v is changing
When a constant force is applied to an object, its velocity will increase rather than remaining constant. This is because of the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration, as described by Newton's second law of motion.
According to Newton's second law, the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the force applied to it and inversely proportional to its mass. Mathematically, this is expressed as F = ma, where F represents the force applied, m represents the mass of the object, and a represents its acceleration.
In this case, if a constant force is applied to an object, the mass remains constant. Therefore, the acceleration of the object is directly proportional to the applied force. Consequently, the object will experience a continuous acceleration in the direction of the applied force.
Acceleration is defined as the rate of change of velocity over time. As the object accelerates, its velocity increases because the acceleration is acting on it. This means that the object's speed or direction of motion is changing continuously, resulting in an increase in its velocity.
It's important to note that when we consider the effect of gravity on the object, it can impact the overall motion. Gravity can either add to the initial force or oppose it, depending on the direction. For example, if the object is in free fall near the Earth's surface, the force of gravity will oppose the applied force, decreasing the net force acting on the object. Therefore, while the object will still be accelerated, the acceleration due to gravity might limit the overall increase in velocity.
In summary, when a constant force is applied to an object, its velocity will increase because the object experiences a continuous acceleration in the direction of the force. This relationship is explained by Newton's second law of motion, relating force, mass, and acceleration.