Which of the following real-world examples models linear motion? A. Throwing a rock in the air at a 60-degree angle B. Running around the curve of a track C. Throwing a rock in the air at a 45-degree angle D. Running 50 m along a straight track
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is D. Running 50 m along a straight track.
Explanation:
Linear motion refers to the movement of an object along a straight line. It involves a constant direction and can be described using parameters such as distance, speed, acceleration, and time. To determine which example models linear motion, let’s examine each option in detail:
- Throwing a rock in the air at a 60-degree angle (A):
This involves projectile motion, not linear motion. When an object is thrown at an angle, it follows a curved path due to the influence of gravity. The motion consists of horizontal motion (along a straight line) and vertical motion (due to gravitational acceleration), but combined, these do not form linear motion. - Running around the curve of a track (B):
Running around a curve describes circular motion, not linear motion. While the speed may be constant, the direction of motion changes constantly as the runner moves along the curve. For motion to be linear, the direction should remain constant, but this is not the case when moving in a circle. - Throwing a rock in the air at a 45-degree angle (C):
Like option A, this also involves projectile motion, characterized by a curved path due to both horizontal and vertical motion components. The path is not straight, thus it does not represent linear motion. - Running 50 m along a straight track (D):
This is a clear example of linear motion. The runner is moving along a straight path, and their motion can be described with parameters such as speed and time, without any change in direction. There is no curvature or deviation from the straight line, which is the defining characteristic of linear motion.
Thus, option D is the correct choice, as it describes motion along a straight path, fitting the definition of linear motion perfectly.