Unit 7 UCM Review Flashcards

Vocabulary practice flashcards based on Unit 7 Uniform Circular Motion (UCM) principles, including formulas, ride mechanics, and force directions in loops.

Fictitious force

A term used to describe centrifugal force when discussing Uniform Circular Motion (UCM).

Centripetal

A term meaning "center seeking."

Acceleration in UCM

The movement of an object in a circular path where it is constantly changing direction, even if moving at a constant velocity.

Centripetal Force ($F_c$)

The force acting on an object in a circular path, calculated as $F_c = \frac{mv^2}{r}$.

Gravitron

A carnival ride where walls push riders inward as they are being pulled into the center, causing them to appear "stuck" to the wall.

Period ($T$)

The time it takes for one revolution, defined as $T = \frac{1}{f}$ or $T = \frac{\text{total time}}{\text{\# of rotations}}$.

Tangential velocity ($v$)

The linear velocity of an object moving along a circular path, calculated as $v = \frac{2\boldsymbol{\pi} r}{T}$.

Centripetal acceleration ($a_c$)

The acceleration of an object directed toward the center of a circular path, calculated as $a_c = \frac{v^2}{r}$.

Net force at Loop Bottom

The direction of acceleration and net force is directed up, and the magnitude of the normal force ($F_{norm}$) is greater than the gravity force ($F_{grav}$).

Net force at Loop Top

The direction of acceleration and net force is directed down, and the magnitude of the normal force ($F_{norm}$) is less than the gravity force ($F_{grav}$).

Tangential Path

The straight line an object follows if there is a break in the centripetal force, moving perpendicular to the radius.

Frequency ($f$)

The number of rotations that occur per unit of time, calculated as $f = \frac{\text{\# of rotations}}{\text{time}}$.

Radius-Acceleration Relationship

An inverse relationship where acceleration increases as the radius decreases.

Tangential Velocity Change

If an object takes three times as much time to revolve at the same radius, the velocity represents a $\frac{1}{3}$ decrease.