Circular Motion

Question 1

Angular velocity equation

Answer 1

Angular velocity = angular displacement / time

Question 2

Geostationary object

Answer 2

an earth-orbiting satellite, placed directly over the
equator, that has orbital period of 24 hours

Question 3

What is free fall?

Answer 3

any motion of a body where its weight is the only
force acting upon it

Question 4

Centripetal force

Answer 4

The resultant force which acts on a body moving in a circular path and is directed towards the centre of the orbit

Question 5

Explain how an object in circular motion accelerates when its speed remains constant.

Answer 5

Centripetal force (towards the centre) is present.
Resultant Force changes direction of motion.
Therefore velocity is changing.
Changing velocity implies acceleration.
Force produces acceleration (F=ma)

Question 6

When an object moves in circular motion its speed does not change. Explain why.

Answer 6

The centripetal force acts perpendicular to motion.
Therefore no acceleration in the direction of motion