Circular Motion and Centripetal Force | GCSE Physics
Moving in a circle requires a constant force towards the center.
Why is an object in circular motion always accelerating?
What is Circular Motion and Centripetal Force | GCSE Physics?
"Motion in a circle at constant speed, where the velocity is constantly changing due to a change in direction."
What is the resultant force on an object if a 10N force acts right and a 4N force acts left?
Which of these is the correct vector equivalent of 'Distance'?
An object moves at a constant velocity. What is the resultant force?
What is the unit of the spring constant (k)?
Centripetal Force
Objects in circular motion travel at constant speed but changing velocity.
Changing direction = Changing velocity = Acceleration.
The resultant force acts towards the center of the circle.
Examples include planets in orbit or a car on a roundabout.
Deep Fact: If the centripetal force is suddenly removed, the object will fly off at a TANGENT to the circle.
Want to improve faster?
The fastest way to improve your grade is to practise exam-style questions, identify your gaps, and focus only on what you don't know.