Why does the direction of gravitational acceleration stay the same?

In summary, the conversation discusses the difference between speed and velocity, with one person initially confusing the two. It is clarified that speed and velocity are not the same thing, and the direction of the gravitational acceleration remains constant regardless of the motion of the projectile.
  • #1
ravsterphysics
57
1

Homework Statement



1.JPG

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Since at N the gravity is now heading down towards the person in a positive direction it's acceleration is G, where as velocity goes up then comes down towards the person so it's velocity is now negative, thus -V, but the correct answer is A?? Why do both components stay the same?
 
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  • #2
Hint: Is speed the same thing as velocity?
 
  • #3
gneill said:
Hint: Is speed the same thing as velocity?

Yep, you're right, I confused speed and velocity. So now I understand why speed V is the same.

But for gravity, why has that not changed?
 
  • #4
ravsterphysics said:
Yep, you're right, I confused speed and velocity. So now I understand why speed V is the same.

But for gravity, why has that not changed?
The Earth didn't move? :smile:

The direction of the gravitational acceleration vector in the chosen inertial reference frame is independent of the motion of the projectile. Down is still down.
 

FAQ: Why does the direction of gravitational acceleration stay the same?

What is the difference between acceleration and speed?

Acceleration is the rate of change of an object's velocity, while speed is the measure of how fast an object is moving. In other words, acceleration measures the change in speed over time.

How is acceleration calculated?

Acceleration is calculated by dividing the change in velocity by the change in time. This can be represented by the equation a = (vf - vi) / t, where a is acceleration, vf is final velocity, vi is initial velocity, and t is time.

How does gravity affect acceleration?

Gravity is a force that causes objects to accelerate towards the Earth at a constant rate of 9.8 meters per second squared. This means that all objects will fall towards the Earth at the same rate regardless of their mass.

Can acceleration be negative?

Yes, acceleration can be negative. This means that an object is slowing down or changing direction in the opposite direction of its initial motion. For example, a car braking has a negative acceleration.

How does air resistance affect acceleration?

Air resistance, also known as drag, can act in the opposite direction of an object's motion and therefore slow it down. This results in a decrease in acceleration. The amount of air resistance an object experiences depends on its shape, size, and speed.

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