Physics Exam Review - Motion and Forces

A set of practice flashcards covering key concepts related to motion, forces, and projectile motion for exam preparation.

What is the force that acts on an object in free fall due to Earth's gravitational field?

Gravitational force (weight).

What is the formula for weight in a gravitational field?

Weight (w) = mass (m) × gravitational field strength (g).

What is the approximate acceleration due to gravity near the Earth's surface?

9.8 m/s².

In free fall, which direction does the gravitational force act?

Vertically downwards, regardless of the object's initial motion.

What changes when an object falls through a gravitational field compared to when it is stationary?

The object's velocity increases due to acceleration from gravity.

What is the relationship between the height of a free-falling object and the gravitational force it experiences?

The gravitational force remains constant regardless of height, but the weight can vary slightly due to changes in distance from Earth's center.

Define terminal velocity.

The constant speed reached by an object when the drag force equals its weight, resulting in no net acceleration.

What determines the trajectory of a projectile?

The initial velocity and the forces acting upon it, primarily gravity.

What is the difference between vertical and horizontal motion in projectile motion?

Vertical motion is subjected to gravitational acceleration, while horizontal motion experiences constant velocity without acceleration.

What effect does angle of launch have on projectile motion?

It affects the range, maximum height, and time of flight of the projectile.

How is work defined in physics?

Work (W) is the force applied to move an object over a distance (W = F × s).

What is torque?

Torque is the rotational effect of a force applied at a distance from an axis of rotation.

What is the relationship between torque and the angle of applied force?

Torque depends on the perpendicular component of the force and the distance from the pivot (Torque = r × F × sin(θ)).

What does it mean for motion to be uniform circular?

An object moves in a circle at a constant speed, but its direction is constantly changing, resulting in circular acceleration.

What is centripetal force?

The net force directed towards the center of a circular path that enables an object to move in a circle.

When does an object experience no torque?

When the force applied is directed along the radius of motion (parallel), not perpendicular.

How is centripetal acceleration calculated?

Centripetal acceleration (ac) = v²/r, where v is the tangential speed and r is the radius of the circular path.

What happens to the forces acting on an object in vertical circular motion at the top and bottom of the path?

At the top, tension and weight act in the same direction (down), while at the bottom, they act against each other.

How do you ensure no sliding occurs on a banked turn?

The banking angle must be designed to provide the required centripetal force without reliance on friction.

What factors affect the magnitude of torque?

Magnitude and direction of the applied force, distance from the pivot, and angle of application.