In the given image, an object moves in a circular counterclockwise direction with constant speed. We are tasked with identifying the correct velocity ($v$) and acceleration ($a$) vectors for this situation.

Circular Motion:

• Velocity vector ($v$): In uniform circular motion, the velocity is always tangential to the circle. It points in the direction of the motion. Since the object is moving counterclockwise, the velocity vector will be tangential to the path, pointing in the direction of motion (tangential to the circle).

• Acceleration vector ($a$): In uniform circular motion, the acceleration is always centripetal, meaning it points towards the center of the circle. This is because the object is constantly changing direction, even though its speed is constant, and this change in direction is caused by the centripetal acceleration.

Correct Answer for Counterclockwise Motion:

• The velocity vector ($v$) should be tangential to the circle (in the direction of motion).
• The acceleration vector ($a$) should point towards the center of the circle.

For Counterclockwise:

• Option (B) is the correct answer because the velocity ($v$) is pointing tangentially, and the acceleration ($a$) is pointing inward (towards the center).

For Clockwise Motion:

If the object were moving in a clockwise direction, the velocity would still be tangential, but in the opposite direction of (B). The acceleration vector would still point toward the center.

For Clockwise:

• Option (E) is the correct answer for clockwise motion, as the velocity is tangential to the path, and the acceleration points inward.

Summary:

• Counterclockwise motion: Answer is (B).
• Clockwise motion: Answer is (E).

Let me know if you'd like more details, or if you have any other questions.

Related Questions:

1. Why does acceleration point towards the center in uniform circular motion?
2. What is the difference between uniform and non-uniform circular motion?
3. How is centripetal acceleration calculated in terms of velocity and radius?
4. What happens to velocity and acceleration vectors if the speed changes in circular motion?
5. Can there be any other type of acceleration besides centripetal in circular motion?

Tip:

In circular motion, even if speed is constant, the velocity changes due to the change in direction, which is why there is always acceleration towards the center (centripetal acceleration).