Circular Motion: Why Objects Stay on a Curve

Always Turning – Circular motion happens when an object keeps changing direction while moving at a steady speed.
Centripetal Force – A force pulling inward keeps objects from flying off their curved path.
Everyday Example – Cars turning on a curve rely on friction to provide the inward force.
Planetary Paths – Earth orbits the Sun in circular motion, guided by the pull of gravity.
Tug of War – Objects in circular motion balance between moving forward and being pulled inward.
String and Stone – Swinging a ball on a string shows how tension provides centripetal force.
Feeling the Force – On a merry-go-round, your body feels like it’s pushed outward, but it’s really inertia resisting the curve.
Speed Matters – Faster motion requires stronger inward force to keep the object on track.
Engineering Example – Banked roads and roller coasters are designed to manage forces in circular motion.
Universal Rule – From atoms spinning electrons to galaxies swirling stars, circular motion shapes the cosmos.