Key Concepts in Circular Motion:
1. Circular Motion:
Circular motion occurs when an object moves along a circular path.
This can happen at a constant speed (uniform circular motion) or at a
changing speed (non-uniform circular motion). The direction of the
object constantly changes, even if its speed remains the same.
2. Centripetal Force:
o This is the inward force that keeps an object moving in a circular
path. Without this force, the object would move in a straight line
(due to inertia).
o Formula: Fc=mv2/r
3. Centripetal Acceleration:
Since the direction of velocity is constantly changing in circular motion,
there is acceleration towards the center of the circle. This is called
centripetal acceleration.
o Formula: ac=v2/r
4. Tangential Velocity:
o The velocity of an object in circular motion is always tangential to
the path. This means the velocity vector points along the edge of
the circle at any point in time.
o Even though the speed might be constant, the velocity changes
because the direction is constantly shifting.
5. Period (T) and Frequency (f):
o Period (T) is the time it takes to complete one full revolution. It’s
measured in seconds.
o Frequency (f) is the number of revolutions per second. It’s
measured in Hertz (Hz).
o Relationship: f=1/T
6. Angular Velocity (ω):
o Angular velocity describes how fast an object rotates or revolves
relative to a reference point, measured in radians per second.
o Formula: ω = 2π/T= 2πf
7. Non-uniform Circular Motion:
o In real life, objects in circular motion often speed up or slow
down. This is called non-uniform circular motion, where both
the magnitude and direction of velocity change.
o In this case, there are two types of acceleration:
▪ Centripetal acceleration (toward the center)
▪ Tangential acceleration (along the path of motion)
Examples of Circular Motion:
1. Planetary Orbits:
o Planets move in nearly circular orbits around the sun due to the
gravitational force, which acts as the centripetal force.
2. Car on a Curved Road:
o When a car takes a curve, friction between the tires and the road
provides the centripetal force that keeps the car on the road.
3. Amusement Park Rides:
o Rides like Ferris wheels and roller coasters involve circular
motion. The force you feel pressing you against the seat is related
to the centripetal force keeping you in circular motion.
Important Points to Remember:
• Centripetal force is necessary for circular motion. It’s not a new kind of
force but can come from tension, gravity, friction, or other forces.
• The object’s velocity in circular motion is constantly changing direction,
which is why it experiences acceleration even if the speed is constant.
• In the absence of centripetal force, objects would move in a straight
line (Newton’s First Law).
• Angular velocity helps us describe circular motion in terms of angles
and time, which is especially useful in rotational systems.
Applications of Circular Motion:
• Circular motion principles are crucial in designing everything from car
tires to satellite orbits. Understanding the balance of forces involved
can help engineers ensure safety and efficiency in transportation, space
exploration, and many mechanical systems.
