9478 / 2027

Chapter 7

Circular Motion

Separate the direction of motion from the direction of acceleration, then choose the actual forces and the correct radius.

Connect angular and linear quantities to a force model, with each equation tied to its conditions.

Radians, angular velocity, inward acceleration and radial force, including horizontal-tether and conical-pendulum models. For 9478 (2027).

Choose a topic

  1. Describe a turn

    Use radians, period and frequency to connect angular and tangential speeds, and measure repeated turns.

  2. Why acceleration points inward

    Construct a change of velocity and distinguish a finite-interval average from instantaneous inward acceleration.

  3. Choose the radial force

    Resolve actual forces in a tether and conical pendulum, and interpret force-speed data.