Chapter 7.2
Vertical circular motion
What You'll Learn
Apply centripetal force and acceleration concepts to objects moving in vertical circles
Calculate tension forces at different points along a vertical circular path
Analyze how gravity and tension combine to create centripetal force
Determine the minimum speed required for an object to complete a vertical loop
Recognize how net force magnitude stays constant while direction changes in uniform circular motion
What You'll Practice
1
Calculating tension at the top and bottom of a vertical circle
2
Finding minimum speed to prevent slack in the string at the top
3
Solving problems with varying tension forces around a circular path
4
Applying vector addition with forces in the same and opposite directions
Why This Matters
Vertical circular motion explains real-world phenomena like roller coaster loops, satellite orbits, and swinging objects. Understanding how gravity and tension interact in circular paths is essential for physics courses and engineering applications where forces change direction continuously.
This Unit Includes
2 Video lessons
Skills
Centripetal Force
Circular Motion
Tension
Gravity
Vector Addition
Newton's Laws
Kinematics
