1.5 Circular motion

Question 1

Define angular speed

Answer 1

The rate of change of theta, the angle swept out by the radius, per unit time. This is given by the equation omega = (delta)(theta)/(delta)t, and has units s^-1

Question 2

What equation links angular and linear speed?

Answer 2

omega = v / r

Question 3

Define period of circular motion

Answer 3

The time taken for one complete revolution

Question 4

Define frequency of circular motion

Answer 4

The number of revolutions per unit time

Question 5

How does period link to angular speed?

Answer 5

omega = 2(pi) / T

Question 6

What is centripetal force?

Answer 6

As an object is accelerating in a circle, the resultant force on it cannot be 0 by Newton’s 2nd law. There therefore must be a resultant force in the direction of acceleration, this is the centripetal force