Centripetal acceleration is the acceleration that causes an object to move in a circular path. It's always directed towards the center of the circle and is responsible for changing the direction of the object's velocity, not its speed. The magnitude of centripetal acceleration depends on the object's speed and the radius of the circular path.
Understanding the formula for centripetal acceleration and being able to apply it to different scenarios is key to solving AP Physics 1 problems. This worksheet will help you practice the vocabulary, concepts, and problem-solving skills related to centripetal acceleration.
Match the term with its correct definition:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| 1. Centripetal Acceleration | A. The force that causes an object to move in a circular path. |
| 2. Centripetal Force | B. The rate at which an object changes its angular position. |
| 3. Tangential Velocity | C. The acceleration directed towards the center of the circular path. |
| 4. Angular Velocity | D. The linear speed of an object moving along a circular path. |
| 5. Radius | E. The distance from the center of the circle to the object's path. |
(Match the numbers with the letters)
Complete the following paragraph using the words provided below:
Centripetal acceleration is always directed toward the ______ of the circular path. The magnitude of centripetal acceleration ($a_c$) can be calculated using the formula $a_c = \frac{v^2}{r}$, where $v$ is the ______ velocity and $r$ is the ______. A larger velocity results in a _______ centripetal acceleration, while a larger radius results in a ______ centripetal acceleration.
Words: smaller, center, larger, radius, tangential
Explain, in your own words, how changing the radius of a circular path affects the centripetal acceleration of an object moving at a constant speed. Give a real-world example to illustrate your explanation.
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