Thinking about velocity, acceleration and forces

Draw arrows/vectors/whatever you like to explain the velocity, acceleration and forces at work in each example below.

Do you really understand?

Two ways to think about this: Use concepts from Newtons 1st and 2nd Laws. Do a mathematical analysis of the change in the velocity vectors

How did the apple change course? Draw velocity vector diagrams to determine and hence determine the direction the force(s) being applied.

= 30 = 15 = 0 = 45 = 60

What assumptions /simplifications are we making when we model the accelerations in this diagram?

Draw velocity vector diagrams to determine at different stages of the journey and hence the acceleration. What forces are acting on the apple?

= 0

= 60 = 15

= 45
= 30

What sort of force would you expect if the apple was moving at constant speed, but in a circle?

enzuber 2013

Add comments to these statements of Newtons Laws to clarify them and expose common misconceptions.

Objects maintain their current velocity if there is no net force acting on the object.

A net force on an object causes it to accelerate. The amount of acceleration depends on the objects mass: