Centripetal Motion Flashcard Retake

Front

What is centripetal motion?

Back

Centripetal motion refers to the motion of an object traveling in a circular path, where a force acts towards the center of the circle, keeping the object in that path.

Front

What is the formula for calculating the period of an object in circular motion?

Back

The period (T) is the time taken for one complete rotation and can be calculated using T = 1/f, where f is the frequency in rotations per second.

Front

How do you convert the period of circular motion to rotations per minute?

Back

To convert the period (T) in seconds to rotations per minute, use the formula: Rotations per minute = 60/T.

Front

What is the relationship between tangential velocity and centripetal acceleration?

Back

Tangential velocity (v) is the linear speed of an object moving along the circular path, while centripetal acceleration (a_c) is given by a_c = v^2/r, where r is the radius of the circle.

Front

What role does inertia play in circular motion?

Back

Inertia is the tendency of an object to resist changes in its state of motion. In circular motion, it is the inertia that keeps the object moving in a straight line unless acted upon by a centripetal force.

Front

What is the centripetal force and what provides it in satellite motion?

Back

Centripetal force is the net force acting on an object moving in a circular path, directed towards the center. In satellite motion, this force is provided by gravity.

Front

How does the direction of velocity change in circular motion?

Back

In circular motion, the direction of velocity is constantly changing, even if the speed remains constant, due to the continuous change in direction of the object's path.

Front

What happens to the centripetal force if the speed of the object increases?

Back

If the speed of the object increases, the centripetal force must also increase to maintain circular motion, as it is proportional to the square of the speed (F_c = mv^2/r).

Front

What is the significance of the radius in circular motion?

Back

The radius of the circular path affects both the centripetal force required to maintain motion and the period of rotation; a larger radius results in a longer period and less centripetal force for the same speed.

Front

How can you determine the direction of instantaneous velocity in circular motion?

Back

The instantaneous velocity in circular motion is always tangent to the circular path at the object's position.