Academy Physics I/C
Circular Motion Lesson
When objects travel in a circular path at constant speed, they are said to experience what we call Uniform Circular Motion, UCM. This motion is slightly different than what we’ve seen so far in that velocity is always changing, or the object is accelerating constantly, but rather than the magnitude of velocity changing it is the direction of the velocity that is constantly changing. The object is constantly changing direction to remain on the circular path. This acceleration is toward the center of the circle.
Watch the following three videos on UCM and then attempt the UCM problems on the Physics C Mechanics Page.
Centripetal Acceleration
Circular Speed
Centripetal Force
Circular Motion Lesson
When objects travel in a circular path at constant speed, they are said to experience what we call Uniform Circular Motion, UCM. This motion is slightly different than what we’ve seen so far in that velocity is always changing, or the object is accelerating constantly, but rather than the magnitude of velocity changing it is the direction of the velocity that is constantly changing. The object is constantly changing direction to remain on the circular path. This acceleration is toward the center of the circle.
Watch the following three videos on UCM and then attempt the UCM problems on the Physics C Mechanics Page.
Centripetal Acceleration
Circular Speed
Centripetal Force