Aim: How do we solve problems involving circular motion? Do Now: Explain why uniform circular motion is accelerated motion.
Centripetal Acceleration Centripetal force is a NET FORCE Causes ACCELERATION In the SAME DIRECTION AS NET FORCE
Uniform Circular Motion Since the direction of the objects velocity is changing, the object must be subjected to an UNBALANCED FORCE! Therefore, it is ACCELERATING
Uniform Circular Motion The direction of the velocity vector is the same as the direction of the object's motion
Uniform Circular Motion The direction of the acceleration is inwards, always pointing towards the center of the circle Called “Centripetal Acceleration” Centripetal means “center-seaking”
Calculating Centripetal Acceleration The centripetal acceleration (ac) of an object in uniform circular motion is calculated by means of the following equation: ac = v2 / r (reference tables) v is the linear speed of the object r is the radius of the circular path
Calculating Centripetal Force The unbalanced force associated with centripetal acceleration is called the centripetal force (Fc). From Newton’s 2nd Law we get: Fc = m ac (reference tables)
Centripetal Force
Exit Ticket What is the centripetal force acting on a 2 kilogram toy truck if it turns with a radius of 1 meters while moving at .5 meters per second?