Question

Velocity of an object can be changed by altering:

• A. Its direction of motion
• B. Its magnitude by application of a force
• C. Both A & B
• D. None of these

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Both A & B

Velocity is a vector quantity. It has both magnitude as well as direction. When we say that velocity changes, there can be three conditions:

1. Only the magnitude changes (what we call speed) and direction remains the same. Eg: A car moving on a straight road applies the brakes.
2. Only the direction changes and the magnitude remains constant. Eg: A car moving on a circular path with constant speed.
3. Both, the direction and the magnitude change. Eg: A car moving along a curved path with increasing (or decreasing) speed.