AP Physics C: Circular Motion Flashcard

Front

What is centripetal force?

Back

Centripetal force is the net force acting on an object moving in a circular path, directed towards the center of the circle, which keeps the object in circular motion.

Front

How is centripetal force calculated?

Back

Centripetal force (F_c) can be calculated using the formula: F_c = (m * v^2) / r, where m is the mass, v is the speed, and r is the radius of the circular path.

Front

What happens to centripetal force if the speed of an object in circular motion is doubled?

Back

If the speed is doubled, the centripetal force increases by a factor of four, since F_c is proportional to the square of the speed (F_c ∝ v^2).

Front

What is the relationship between radius and centripetal force?

Back

Centripetal force is inversely proportional to the radius of the circular path. If the radius is increased while keeping speed constant, the centripetal force decreases.

Front

What is the difference between speed and velocity in circular motion?

Back

Speed is a scalar quantity representing how fast an object moves, while velocity is a vector quantity that includes both speed and direction. In circular motion, velocity is constantly changing due to the change in direction.

Front

What is uniform circular motion?

Back

Uniform circular motion refers to the motion of an object traveling at a constant speed along a circular path, where the direction of the velocity vector changes continuously.

Front

What is the role of tension in circular motion?

Back

Tension in a string or rope provides the centripetal force necessary to keep an object moving in a circular path, acting towards the center of the circle.

Front

How does mass affect centripetal force?

Back

Centripetal force is directly proportional to the mass of the object. Increasing the mass increases the required centripetal force to maintain circular motion.

Front

What is the formula for calculating the centripetal acceleration?

Back

Centripetal acceleration (a_c) can be calculated using the formula: a_c = v^2 / r, where v is the speed and r is the radius of the circular path.

Front

What is the significance of net force in circular motion?

Back

The net force in circular motion is the centripetal force that acts towards the center of the circle, allowing the object to maintain its circular path.