Math Problem Statement

A student is pulling a wagon and records the force vs. time values in the table.  

t (s)

F (N)

0

10

1

10

2

10

3

10

4

10

Which of the following will also remain constant for the wagon?

A.Velocity

B.Displacement

C.Momentum

D.Acceleration

Solution

Given that the force applied to the wagon remains constant at 10 N over time, we can determine what other physical quantities will also remain constant.

First, recall Newton's Second Law:

F=maF = ma

Where:

  • FF is the force,
  • mm is the mass of the wagon,
  • aa is the acceleration.

Since the force is constant, and assuming the mass mm of the wagon does not change, this implies that the acceleration must remain constant.

Let's now examine each of the options:

A. Velocity

  • If the wagon has a constant acceleration, then its velocity will change over time (since acceleration is the rate of change of velocity). Therefore, velocity cannot remain constant.

B. Displacement

  • Displacement depends on both velocity and time. Since the velocity is changing due to constant acceleration, the displacement will not be constant either. Therefore, displacement cannot remain constant.

C. Momentum

  • Momentum is defined as p=mvp = mv, where vv is the velocity. Since the velocity is changing over time due to constant acceleration, the momentum will also change. Thus, momentum cannot remain constant.

D. Acceleration

  • As discussed, the acceleration remains constant because the force is constant and the mass is not changing. Therefore, acceleration will remain constant.

The correct answer is D. Acceleration.

Would you like further details on any of these concepts?

Follow-up questions:

  1. How is velocity related to acceleration over time?
  2. What factors can affect momentum in this scenario?
  3. How would displacement change if the force were variable instead of constant?
  4. What is the difference between displacement and distance in physics?
  5. How can the work done on the wagon be calculated if the force remains constant?

Tip:

Remember that constant force results in constant acceleration, but not necessarily constant velocity or momentum!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Newton's Second Law
Kinematics
Dynamics

Formulas

F = ma (Newton's Second Law)
Momentum p = mv

Theorems

Newton's Second Law of Motion

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12