When an object moves along a circular path in a vertical plane, its motion is called as ‘Motion in a Vertical Circle’. The object experiences both gravitational and centripetal forces. This type of motion is commonly observed in cases like a pendulum, a roller coaster loop, or a stone tied to a string and whirled in a circle.
Key Aspects of Vertical Circular Motion:
- Forces Acting on the Object:
- Gravity always acts downward.
- Tension (if a string is involved) or normal force (in the case of a roller coaster) varies at different points.
- Centripetal force is required to keep the object in circular motion.
- Speed Variation:
- At the highest point, the object has the least speed due to the opposing force of gravity.
- At the lowest point, speed is maximum because gravity aids the motion.
- Speed depends on energy conservation principles.
This video explains in English the important formulas of motion in a vertical circle.
Question from CEE 2014:
A particle moves down an inclined plane and at the foot of the plane, it moves over a circular path as shown in the figure. The ratio of the heights h1 and h2 is
[A] 5 [B] 4 [C] 3 [D] 2
Solution: This video explains how we solve this problem.
Note: The video was recorded in a low quality set up. Please bear with that.