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2.10 Circular Motion

Part of Force and Translational Dynamics in AP® Physics C: Mechanics. Read the opening section, then create a free account for the full interactive lesson, practice, and progress tracking.

Circular motion occurs when an object moves in a circular path around a fixed point. Even if the object’s speed remains constant, its direction changes continuously, meaning it is accelerating. This acceleration is called centripetal acceleration and always points toward the center of the circle.

The force causing this acceleration is the centripetal force, a net inward force that maintains circular motion.

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