Angular velocity

Definition

Angular velocity is the rate at which an object rotates around a fixed axis. It is measured in radians per second (rad/s).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. It is a vector quantity, indicating both the speed and direction of rotation.
2. The symbol for angular velocity is usually $\omega$ (omega).
3. Angular velocity can be calculated using $\omega = \frac{\Delta \theta}{\Delta t}$, where $\Delta \theta$ is the change in angle and $\Delta t$ is the change in time.
4. In uniform circular motion, angular velocity remains constant.
5. Angular velocity relates to linear velocity by $v = r \omega$, where $r$ is the radius.

Review Questions

• What units are used to measure angular velocity?
• How do you calculate angular velocity from the change in angle and time?
• What relationship exists between linear velocity and angular velocity?

Related terms

Linear Velocity: The rate of change of an object's position along a path. It is measured in meters per second (m/s).

Centripetal Acceleration: The acceleration that points towards the center of a circular path, keeping an object moving along that path.

Moment of Inertia: A measure of an object's resistance to changes in its rotational motion. It depends on the mass distribution relative to the axis of rotation.