SUMMARY
The centripetal acceleration of a point on a wheel's rim with a radius of 1.0 m and a constant angular speed of 2.0 rad/s is calculated using the formula a_c = ω²r. Substituting the values, a_c = (2.0 rad/s)² * 1.0 m results in a centripetal acceleration of 4.0 m/s². Therefore, the correct answer is B) 4.0 m/s². This confirms the validity of the equation v²/r for calculating centripetal acceleration.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of angular velocity and its units (rad/s)
- Familiarity with the formula for centripetal acceleration (a_c = ω²r)
- Basic knowledge of circular motion concepts
- Ability to perform algebraic calculations
NEXT STEPS
- Study the relationship between angular velocity and linear velocity in circular motion
- Learn about the effects of varying radius on centripetal acceleration
- Explore real-world applications of centripetal acceleration in engineering
- Investigate the differences between centripetal and centrifugal forces
USEFUL FOR
Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and circular motion, as well as educators seeking to reinforce concepts of centripetal acceleration.