Velocity and acceleration on a track

AI Thread Summary
The runner maintains a constant speed around the track, meaning their velocity does not change in magnitude, but the direction does. The largest velocity occurs at the straight sections of the track, while the largest acceleration happens at the curves due to the change in direction. Acceleration is related to the curvature of the track, as it requires a force to change direction, even if speed remains constant. Understanding the distinction between speed and velocity is crucial, as velocity includes both magnitude and direction. Clarifying these concepts is essential for solving related physics problems effectively.
mwhowell
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Homework Statement

A runner runs with a constant speed around the track.

a) at which of the points is the runner's velocity the largest? Explain.

b) at which point is the runner's acceleration the largest? Explain.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I believe the runner has the highest velocity and acceleration at B because he is covering the most ground in the x and y vectors but I am not sure. Can anyone explain this to me?
 

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a) there's really no difference between "the speed is larger" and "the velocity is larger". The speed is constant, so this question makes no sense.

b) The acceleration is largest where the track is the most curved
 
velocity has a vector and magnitude so there has to be a difference and what is the reason the acceleration is greater in the curve? can you supply an explanation for that?
 
mwhowell said:
velocity has a vector and magnitude so there has to be a difference and what is the reason the acceleration is greater in the curve? can you supply an explanation for that?

You should attempt this part yourself. Otherwise you will have had no input in the question.
 
the reason i am asking is because i got the question wrong already
 
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