When a particle travels in a circle of radius r, at constant speed v, what is its acceleration

v2/r, towards the center of the circle.Remember that acceleration is the rate of change of velocity, not merely of speed. This means that the change in direction is important. In a unit of time, the velocity vector will rotate by a small angle. This angle is proportional to the angular velocity (w) and to the size of the time unit. This means that the acceleration has magnitude vw. Since w=v/r, this is v2/r. Since the speed is constant, we know that the force is acting perpendicular to the direction of motion, so we finally have v2/r towards the center of the circle.

Answered by Physics tutor

1533 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A photon has an energy of 1.0 MeV. Calculate the frequency associated with this photon energy. State an appropriate unit in your answer.


A conical pendulum is a mass suspended from a point that traces out a horizontal circle. By balancing the weight with the tension in the string, determine the speed of the bob.


Which are the types of carrier movements and how are they activated


The energy of a photon is 1.5MeV. Calculate the frequency associated with this photon energy and state an appropriate unit in your answer.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences