AP Physics 1 · Unit 5
Uniform Circular Motion: every key term you need
10 flashcard terms for AP Physics 1 Unit 5, written to match the course framework. Study them here, then drill them as interactive flashcards — free, no account needed.
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Uniform Circular Motion Object moves in circle at constant speed; velocity direction changes (constant acceleration). Centripetal acceleration a_c = v²/r.
Centripetal Force Net force toward center. F_c = mv²/r = mω²r. Provides centripetal acceleration. Not a new force; gravity, tension, friction can provide.
Angular Velocity (ω) Angular displacement per time. ω = v/r or ω = 2π/T where T = period.
Period & Frequency Period T: time for one revolution. Frequency f: revolutions per time. f = 1/T. ω = 2πf.
Banking Angles Road banked to reduce required friction. Normal force component provides centripetal force. Ideal angle: tan(θ) = v²/(rg).
Universal Gravitation F_g = G·m₁m₂/r². Gravity acts between all masses. G = 6.67×10⁻¹¹ N·m²/kg². Weakest fundamental force.
Gravitational Field g = F_g/m = GM/r². Acceleration on object due to mass M at distance r. At Earth surface: g ≈ 9.8 m/s².
Orbital Motion Gravity provides centripetal force. GMm/r² = mv²/r → v = √(GM/r). Faster orbit = smaller r.
Orbital Velocity v_orbit = √(GM/r). Kepler's Third Law: T² ∝ r³. Doubling r → √8× period.
Unit 5 Summary Circular motion requires centripetal force (toward center). Gravity provides force for orbits. Orbital speed depends on distance from mass.
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