5.2 Circular Motion Flashcards Preview

Physics A Level > 5.2 Circular Motion > Flashcards

Flashcards in 5.2 Circular Motion Deck (8)
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1
Q

Define angular velocity

A

The rate of change of angle of an object moving in a circular path

2
Q

Define centripetal force

A

The resultant force towards the centre of a circle

3
Q

Define centripetal acceleration

A

Acceleration towards the centre of a circle that causes the resultant centripetal force

4
Q

How are centripetal force and velocity related? (2)

A

Centripetal force always acts perpendicular to velocity

There is no component of force in the direction of motion so the speed remains constant

5
Q

Why are objects in circular motion accelerating if they have constant speed?

A

The direction is constantly changing so their velocity is changing, meaning they have acceleration

6
Q

How is linear velocity related to radius?

A

For any object with constant angular velocity, linear velocity is directly proportional to the radius

7
Q

How can circular motion be investigated using a bung? (2)

A

Use a bung attached to a weight using a piece of string

Swing the bung in a horizontal circle so that the suspended weight stays stationary; mg = centripetal force

8
Q

Motion in a vertical circle (3)

A

Centripetal force is constant at all points
At top of circle, centripetal force = tension + weight
At bottom of circle, centripetal force = tension - weight