A particle is thrown vertically upward. When it reaches the highest point, it has ______.
a downward acceleration
The correct answer is a downward acceleration.
Throughout its entire flight, neglecting air resistance, the only force acting on the particle is gravity. Gravity acts downwards, causing a constant downward acceleration equal to \(g\) (approximately 9.8 m/s²). This acceleration remains constant regardless of the particle's velocity or whether it's moving upwards or downwards.
Let's examine why the other options are incorrect:
- An upward acceleration: This would require a net upward force, which is not present in this scenario.
- A downward velocity: At the highest point, the particle momentarily stops before changing direction. Its velocity is zero at this instant.
- A horizontal velocity: The particle is thrown vertically; therefore, it has no horizontal motion.
Therefore, even at its highest point where the instantaneous velocity is zero, the particle continues to experience a constant downward acceleration due to the force of gravity.
Similar Questions
Select the option that is true regarding the following two statements labelled Assertion (A) and Reason (R).
(A): An object slips less on a rough surface than a smooth surface.
(R): When a surface is rough, frictional force increases.
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