AP Physics C: Circular Motion Flashcard

Front

What is centripetal force?

Back

Centripetal force is the net force that acts on an object moving in a circular path, directed towards the center of the circle.

Front

What happens to the velocity of an object in uniform circular motion?

Back

The velocity of an object in uniform circular motion is not constant because the direction of the velocity vector is continuously changing, even if the speed is constant.

Front

How does the centripetal acceleration relate to the speed and radius of circular motion?

Back

Centripetal acceleration (a_c) is given by 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 relationship between speed and centripetal force?

Back

Centripetal force increases with the square of the speed; if the speed is tripled, the centripetal force increases by a factor of nine.

Front

What is the formula for calculating the minimum coefficient of friction required to prevent slipping in circular motion?

Back

The minimum coefficient of friction (μ) can be calculated using the formula μ = v^2 / (g * r), where v is the speed, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and r is the radius.

Front

What is the effect of increasing the radius of a circular path on centripetal force, if speed is constant?

Back

If the radius is increased while keeping speed constant, the centripetal force decreases, specifically it is halved if the radius is doubled.

Front

What is the significance of the net force in circular motion?

Back

The net force in circular motion is crucial as it is responsible for changing the direction of the object's velocity, allowing it to follow a circular path.

Front

How do you calculate the tension in a string for an object in circular motion?

Back

The tension in the string can be calculated using the formula T = m * a_c, where T is the tension, m is the mass of the object, and a_c is the centripetal acceleration.

Front

What is uniform circular motion?

Back

Uniform circular motion is the motion of an object traveling at a constant speed along a circular path.

Front

What is the role of friction in circular motion?

Back

Friction provides the necessary centripetal force to keep an object moving in a circular path; without sufficient friction, the object may slip or skid.