Circular motion

Definition

Circular motion describes the movement of an object along the circumference of a circle. It is characterized by a constant distance from a fixed central point.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Circular motion can be described using sine and cosine functions, where the angle represents time.
2. The radius of the circular path is the amplitude of the periodic function.
3. The period of circular motion corresponds to $2\pi$ radians in trigonometric functions.
4. In uniform circular motion, angular velocity ($\omega$) remains constant.
5. The projection of circular motion onto the x-axis and y-axis yields cosine and sine graphs respectively.

Review Questions

• What trigonometric functions describe circular motion?
• How does the radius relate to amplitude in periodic functions?
• What is the relationship between angular velocity and period in circular motion?

Related terms

Amplitude: The maximum extent of a vibration or oscillation, measured from the position of equilibrium.

Period: The duration required for one complete cycle of a periodic function.

Angular Velocity: A measure of how quickly an object rotates or revolves relative to another point; often measured in radians per second.