Physics Centripetal Acceleration

These flashcards cover the concepts of centripetal acceleration as applied to the problem regarding a boy riding a merry-go-round.

What is the formula for centripetal acceleration (a_c)?

a_c = v² / r, where v is tangential speed and r is the radius.

What is the centripetal acceleration of a 25kg boy on a merry-go-round with a radius of 5m and a tangential speed of 6 m/s?

a_c = 6² / 5 = 7.2 m/s².

What does centripetal acceleration depend on?

Centripetal acceleration depends on the square of the tangential speed and inversely on the radius of the circular path.

Which of the following is the correct centripetal acceleration for the given scenario?

7.2 m/s².

If tangential speed is doubled while keeping the radius the same, how does the centripetal acceleration change?

Centripetal acceleration increases by a factor of four.