5.2: Circular motion Flashcards
1
Q
Angular velocity
A
An object’s rate of change of angular position.
2
Q
Centripetal acceleration
A
The acceleration of an object moving in circular motion.
(Any object in circular motion must have an acceleration since the direction of the object, and therefore the velocity of the object, is constantly changing.)
3
Q
Centripetal force
A
The resultant force responsible for an object moving in circular motion. Centripetal forces always act towards the centre of the object’s rotation.
4
Q
Frequency
A
The inverse of the time period. The number of rotations per unit time.
5
Q
Period
A
The time taken for one whole rotation.
6
Q
Radian
A
A unit of angle, where 2π is equal to one complete angular rotation.
