GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Circular Motion

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Forces Forces and motion

Circular Motion

5:04 Average Speed and Velocity
Spec 4.5.6.1.3
Previous Measuring Speed Next Accelerating Distance-Time Graphs
  • An object can change direction without affecting its speed, altering its velocity.
  • Velocity is a vector quantity with both magnitude (speed) and direction.
  • Changing velocity without changing speed involves altering the direction of the vector.
  • Example: A rugby player changes direction to avoid a tackle while maintaining speed.
  • Circular motion involves constant speed but changing velocity.
  • Example: A ball on a string spun in a circle has constant speed but changing direction.
  • Understanding circular motion is important for exams, focusing on constant speed and changing velocity.
  • Vehicles, airplanes, and race cars use circular paths to maintain speed while changing direction.
  • Satellites maintain stable orbits by keeping constant speed and changing direction.
  • Fairground rides keep constant speed while changing direction, creating a sensation of velocity change.
  • Key exam point: Velocity changes, but speed remains constant in circular motion.

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