11. Describe the two dimensions of the motion of an object in a circle due to centripetal force. Explain why putting them together results in circular motion.
The two dimensions of the motion of an object in a circle due to centripetal force are radial and tangential motion.
1. Radial Motion: The radial motion of an object in a circle refers to the motion along the radius towards the center of the circle or away from it. This motion is governed by the centripetal force, which acts towards the center of the circle. This force keeps the object moving in a curved path by continuously changing its direction. In the absence of any other forces, the radial motion of the object would cause it to move towards the center of the circle.
2. Tangential Motion: The tangential motion of an object in a circle refers to the motion along the tangent to the circle at any given point. This motion is perpendicular to the radial motion and is responsible for the object's speed or velocity. In circular motion, the speed remains constant, but the velocity constantly changes due to its direction being continuously adjusted by the centripetal force.
When these two dimensions are combined, circular motion is achieved. The centripetal force acting towards the center of the circle continuously changes the object's direction, while the object moves along the tangent at a constant speed. This continuous change in direction causes the object to travel in a circular path instead of a straight line. Without the centripetal force, the object would move in a straight line tangential to the circle instead of a curved trajectory. Therefore, the combination of radial and tangential motion due to the centripetal force results in circular motion.