Which situation describes a non-contact force changing the speed of an object?

a ball accelerating as it rolls down a hill
a ball accelerating as it rolls down a hill

a bicycle accelerating as the rider pedals more quickly
a bicycle accelerating as the rider pedals more quickly

a gust of wind blowing a leaf away
a gust of wind blowing a leaf away

a drawer opening when a user pulls the handle

A gust of wind blowing a leaf away is an example of a non-contact force changing the speed of an object.

The correct answer is: a gust of wind blowing a leaf away.

The situation that describes a non-contact force changing the speed of an object is a gust of wind blowing a leaf away.

A non-contact force is a force that does not require direct physical contact between objects. In this case, the gust of wind is exerting a force on the leaf without actually touching it. As a result, the leaf accelerates and its speed changes.

To determine which situation describes a non-contact force changing the speed of an object, you can analyze each scenario and identify whether there is direct physical contact involved. In the case of the ball rolling down a hill and the bicycle rider pedaling more quickly, these situations involve contact forces where objects come into direct contact with each other, such as the ball contacting the ground or the bicycle rider pushing on the pedals.

On the other hand, the situation of a gust of wind blowing a leaf away involves a non-contact force as the wind applies force on the leaf from a distance without any physical contact. The force from the wind causes the leaf to accelerate and changes its speed, making it the correct answer in this case.

Remember, understanding the concept of forces and their effects on objects can help you accurately identify and determine the impact of different types of forces in specific situations.