Question

A particle is moving in a circle of radius 2 m with a constant speed of 4 m/s. What is the centripetal acceleration?

• A. 2 m/s\textsuperscript{2}
• B. 4 m/s\textsuperscript{2}
• C. 8 m/s\textsuperscript{2}
• D. 16 m/s\textsuperscript{2}

Hint:

In uniform circular motion, even with constant speed, acceleration exists due to the continuous change in direction. Always use \( a = \frac{v^2}{r} \) for centripetal acceleration.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Centripetal acceleration is given by: \[ a = \frac{v^2}{r} \] Given: Speed \( v = 4 \, \text{m/s} \), Radius \( r = 2 \, \text{m} \) \[ a = \frac{4^2}{2} = \frac{16}{2} = 8 \, \text{m/s}^2 \] Hence, the correct answer is (c).