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AP Physics 1 2.9: Circular Motion

Relate an object’s circular path to tangential speed, radius, and centripetal acceleration, and identify the inward direction of the acceleration.

Syllabus
Effective Fall 2025
Course
AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based

2.9.A—Describe the motion of an object traveling in a circular path question 1

[Maximum number: 3]

(7 points, suggested time 13 minutes)
A block of mass M is released from rest at Point A, a height 6 R above the horizontal. After being released, the block slides down a track, as shown. When released from Point A, the block does not lose contact with the track at any point. Points B and C are located at the highest points of their respective circular loops, both of radius R. All frictional forces are negligible.

Figure for Question 2.9.A—Describe the motion of an object traveling in a circular path question 1 — AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based

Diagram A shows an energy bar chart that represents the gravitational potential energy UgU_{g} of the block-Earth system and the kinetic energy K of the block at Point A, when the block is released from rest at height 6 R.

Question (a)

(a)

On the following dot that represents the block, draw and label the forces (not components) that are exerted on the block at the instant the block slides through Point C. Each force must be represented by a distinct arrow starting on, and pointing away from, the dot.

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Question (b)

(b)

A student claims that 4 R is the minimum height of Point A, such that the block can slide through Point C without losing contact with the track after the block is released from rest. Briefly explain why this claim is incorrect.

Figure 1

Figure 1

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