Circular Motion Calculator
Calculate properties of uniform circular motion.
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Select input mode, then enter the radius and either velocity or period. The calculator computes centripetal acceleration, frequency, and period. Results update live.
About Circular Motion
Uniform circular motion occurs when an object moves at constant speed along a circular path. Despite constant speed, the object accelerates because the direction of its velocity continuously changes. This centripetal acceleration always points toward the center of the circle and equals v2/r. The period is the time for one full orbit, and frequency is its reciprocal. These concepts apply to planetary orbits, rotating machinery, and particle accelerators.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is uniform circular motion?
Uniform circular motion is movement along a circular path at constant speed. Although speed is constant, velocity changes direction continuously, requiring centripetal acceleration.
What is the relationship between period and frequency?
Period (T) is the time for one complete revolution. Frequency (f) is the number of revolutions per second. They are reciprocals: f = 1/T.
Why is there acceleration in uniform circular motion?
Even at constant speed, the direction of velocity changes continuously. This change in direction means the velocity vector is changing, which by definition is acceleration (centripetal acceleration).