Changing position in circular motion

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding how the x and y components of position change during circular motion, particularly in the context of an exam question. The subject area includes concepts of circular motion and potentially trigonometric relationships related to position components.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between the x and y components and the angle in circular motion. Questions arise regarding the specific nature of the change (e.g., with respect to time) and whether the motion is uniform. There is also a mention of relevant formulas that could apply to the scenario.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the original question and exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding potential equations and the relationship between angle and position components, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the question is part of an upcoming exam, which may impose constraints on the type of responses expected. There is also uncertainty about the specific details of the question being asked.

alik
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Could you help me with question : How does the x and y component of the position change in circular motion?
 
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Draw a circle at the origin of x and y axes. Then, as you move your pen around the circle, the x and y components of the position of your pen will change.

Your question isn't very precise-- what do you mean by "how"? Are you looking for equations here? Is this a homework question? If so, then state the exact question, and your attempt before we can help you.
 
;) it's my exam's question on monday . It's the exact formulation of these question and I think it's about the relation between x y components and the angle - yes any equation
 
alik said:
Could you help me with question : How does the x and y component of the position change in circular motion?

Do you mean "change with time"? Do you mean *uniform* circular motion?

In any case, have you seen the formula \theta(t) = \theta_i + \omega t for circular motion at constant speed? If yes, the answer is simple. If not, I am not sure what they are looking for in terms of an answer. If you fix the time, it's pretty clear how to write x and y at a given time in terms of the angle at that same time \theta(t) and the radius R of the circle.
 

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