9702 · 12.2
Centripetal acceleration
When an object moves in a circle, its direction constantly changes, even if its speed stays the same. This change in direction means it's accelerating, and that acceleration is always pulling it towards the centre of the circle.
Need to know
What you need to know
- 12.2 Centripetal acceleration.
- During a uniform circular motion, an object is continuously changing direction .
- Since velocity is a vector , the change in direction would imply that there is an acceleration on the object.
- This acceleration is called centripetal acceleration .
- The centripetal acceleration is caused by centripetal force .
- Centripetal force means centre seeking force as it always acts towards the centre.
Explanation
The Invisible Pull of Circular Motion
- Speed is constant, but velocity changes (direction!).
- Change in velocity = acceleration (centripetal acceleration).
- This acceleration points inwards, towards the circle's centre.
- An inward force (centripetal force) causes this acceleration.