Question

In which of the following "frames of reference" would matter behave exactly as it would in a stationary frame of reference?

A) accelerating downward in an elevator whose cable has broken
B) moving upward against gravity in an elevator as it accelerates from rest
C) moving at a constant velocity
D) moving at a constant speed in a circular path, such as in an orbit

Answer 1

In order for matter to behave exactly as it would in a stationary frame of reference, it needs to be in a frame of reference that is not accelerating or moving at a constant velocity.

Step-by-step explanation:

In order for matter to behave exactly as it would in a stationary frame of reference, it needs to be in a frame of reference that is not accelerating or moving at a constant velocity.

Out of the given options, the frame of reference in which matter would behave exactly as it would in a stationary frame of reference is C) moving at a constant velocity. In this case, there is no acceleration or change in speed, so the behavior of matter would be the same as in a stationary frame of reference.