Circular motion formulas, what does the angle without the function mean?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the interpretation of an angle without a trigonometric function in circular motion formulas, specifically referring to delta theta. Users clarify that this angle can be expressed in either degrees or radians, but consistency in units is crucial throughout calculations. For example, if the angle represents a quarter of a circle, it can be denoted as Δθ = π/2 in radians. While radians are typically preferred, degrees can also be used as long as all related measurements, like angular acceleration, are compatible. Understanding this flexibility helps in applying circular motion formulas correctly.
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I see an angle without a trigonometric function (delta theta - at the left side equations). I've never seen it before in a formula, and am not sure how to use it. Can anyone tell me how? Do I just translate degrees to radians and just plug the number I get in radians?
 
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Yes, typically you see everything in radians. So if you went through a quarter of a circle, you'd have \Delta \theta = {{\pi} \over{2}}

You could use degrees as long as everything is consistent (such as the angular acceleration being in degrees/sec for example).
 

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