Topic 6: Circular Motion and Gravitation

Unit Notes

Gravitational Forces and fields (ppt)  (pdf)
Gravitational Potential Energy and Potential (ppt) (pdf)
Escape Velocity (ppt) (pdf)

6.1  Circular Motion

6.1.1

Define period, frequency, angular displacement and angular velocity

6.1.2

State that circular motion requires a centripetal force to act.  Draw a vector diagram illustrating how that force acts relative to the centripetal acceleration and the speed of the circling object.

6.1.3

In various scenarios, identify the source of the centripetal force.  For example, Identify the scenarios in which the centripetal force is provided by: tension, friction, gravitational, electrical, or magnetic (note:  we'll revisit this topic when we study electricity and magnetism next year!)

6.1.4

Define centripetal acceleration.  Explain, using vector diagrams and velocity vector addition, in what direction it must be pointed in order to achieve circular motion.

6.1.5

Solve problems involving each of the following: centripetal force, centripetal acceleration, period, frequency, angular displacement, linear speed and angular velocity 

6.1.6

Qualitatively and quantitatively describe examples of uniform circular motion including cases of vertical circular motion as well as horizontal circular motion