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Non-uniform circular motion: forces

Free notes · JEE Main Physics

Formulas

ΣFrad=mv2r,ΣFtan=mdvdt\Sigma F_{rad} = \frac{mv^2}{r},\quad \Sigma F_{tan} = m\frac{dv}{dt}

Force balance in non-uniform circular motion

Worked example

In uniform circular motion, the acceleration of the particle is directed:

  1. Speed is constant but velocity direction changes continuously.
  2. The change in velocity points toward the centre → centripetal acceleration a_c = v²/r toward the centre.

Answer: Toward the centre of the circle