Module 2: Circular motion and oscillations

Question 1

Radian

Answer 1

An alternative unit for measuring angles. 2π radians = 360°.

Question 2

Gravitational field strength

Answer 2

Gravitational field strength is the force per unit mass.

Question 3

Newton’s law of gravitation

Answer 3

Any two point masses attract each other with a force that is directly proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of their separation.

Question 4

The period of an object describing a circle

Answer 4

The period of an object describing a circle is the time taken by the object to complete one orbit. The period is also the time taken for one complete oscillation of a vibrating object.

Question 5

Geostationary orbit of a satellite

Answer 5

The orbit of an artificial satellite which has a period equal to one day so that the satellite remains above the same point on the Earth’s equator.

Question 6

Displacement

Answer 6

Distance of a particle from its equilibrium position.

Question 7

Amplitude

Answer 7

Maximum displacement.

Question 8

Period

Answer 8

Time taken to complete one full cycle.

Question 9

Frequency

Answer 9

Number of complete oscillations that pass a point in 1 second.

Question 10

Angular frequency

Answer 10

The rate of change of angle expressed in radian per second.

Question 11

Phase difference

Answer 11

Fraction of an oscillation ‘out of sync’ two waves with identical frequency are.

Question 12

Simple harmonic motion

Answer 12

Motion of an oscillator where its acceleration is directly proportional to its displacement from its equilibrium position and is directed towards that position.