IB Physics SL A.2.25 Vertical Circular Motion and Acceleration

Practise explaining centripetal acceleration when speed is constant but velocity direction changes on a rotating platform.

Exam points

Explain why changing direction means acceleration even at constant speed.

[Maximum number: 4]

This question is in two parts. Part 1 is about two children on a merry-go-round. Part 2 is about electric circuits.

Part 1 Two children on a merry-go-round
Aibhe and Euan are sitting on opposite sides of a merry-go-round, which is rotating at constant speed around a fixed centre. The diagram below shows the view from above.

Figure for Question A.2.25—Direction change in circular motion question 1 — IB Physics SL

Aibhe is moving at speed $1.0 \mathrm{~ms}^{-1}$ relative to the ground.

(a)

Outline why Aibhe is accelerating even though she is moving at constant speed.

[ 2 ]

(b)

The diagram below shows a side view of Aibhe and Euan on the merry-go-round.

Explain why Aibhe feels as if her upper body is being "thrown outwards", away from the centre of the merry-go-round.

[ 2 ]

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A.2.25—Direction change in circular motion question 1

Question (a)

Question (b)