2
lesson pretestMultiple Choice

Pretest

Question 2 • Physics I

In which situation would a space probe most likely experience centripetal acceleration?

Answer
A
as it lifts off from Earth
B
as it is pulled in a line toward the Sun
C
as it revolves around a planet
D
as it flies straight past a moon

Explanation

Centripetal acceleration occurs when an object’s velocity changes direction as it moves along a curved path, such as an orbit. A probe revolving around a planet continually changes direction, with the planet’s gravity providing the inward acceleration. Lifting off or flying straight does not necessarily involve this circular motion.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

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