Circular motion Flashcards
Why is circular motion a constant changing of velocity?
Even though speed is constant, the direction is changing all the time
What does circular motion involve?
The acceleration of a moving object
What is acceleration evidence of?
A force acting, so the object feels a constant force (centripetal force)
What does centripetal force do to a moving object?
Pulls it towards the centre of the circular orbit. Without this acceleration, the object would move in a straight line.
Why is circular motion called accelerated motion?
The object’s velocity vector is constantly changing direction
What two formulae does the formula for centripetal force come from? (F = mv2 / r)
F = ma and a = v2 / r
What two factors increase centripetal force?
The object’s mass and the speed of the rotation
What factor decreases centripetal force?
The increase of the radius of the circular path travelled
What is the centripetal force that keeps planets in orbit?
Gravity
When is gravity strongest?
Between objects that are close together, meaning they travel faster in orbit
