Curved path

ritwik06

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data
Is it possible for a particle to describe a curved path if no force acts on it? Is the answer reference frame dependent?
[I am sorry. I forgot that the rule says on question per thread. ]
3. The attempt at a solution
YES, when the body stays still but the frame describes a curved path. Then with respect to that frame the body will describe curves but no force would act on particle. Will we count pseudo force as a force?

Redbelly98

I guess it matters whether we are considering accelerated reference frames, or just strictly inertial reference frames.

Or put another way, do you think they are considering reference frames in which F=ma is not true?

turin

I agree with your answer. What is a "curved path", anyway? If you define it as a path for which the coordinates of points along the path are not all related by affine transformations, then all you have to do is define screwy coordinates (or, as you suggest, rotate the reference frame).