Angular velocity, acceleration, and torque

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the directional properties of angular velocity, acceleration, torque, and momentum, questioning why they point perpendicular to the rotation rather than tangentially. Participants clarify that the context involves circular motion, specifically comparing a merry-go-round to a coin spinning on its edge. The use of a perpendicular vector simplifies calculations, as it incorporates both direction and magnitude effectively. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the geometry of rotation to grasp these concepts. Ultimately, the perpendicular nature of these vectors is essential for accurate mathematical representation in rotational dynamics.
BadSkittles
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Hello, can anyone explain why the direction of angular velocity, acceleration, torque, and momentum point perpendicular to the rotation of the circle? It seems to make more sense if it pointed in the tangential direction.
 
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BadSkittles said:
Hello, can anyone explain why the direction of angular velocity, acceleration, torque, and momentum point perpendicular to the rotation of the circle? It seems to make more sense if it pointed in the tangential direction.

What actual circle is rotating here, and is it rotating like a merry-go-round or like a coin spinning on its edge?
 
BadSkittles said:
Hello, can anyone explain why the direction of angular velocity, acceleration, torque, and momentum point perpendicular to the rotation of the circle? It seems to make more sense if it pointed in the tangential direction.
By using a vector perpendicular to the plane of some angular quality, the math is simpler since normal vector math can be used, and a vector provides sufficient information, direction and magnitude.
 
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a merry go around like circle
 
What tangent? It's a merry go round. There is no one tangent.
 
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