How Do Properties of a Particle Affect Its Linear Speed in a Circular Orbit?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on determining how the linear speed of a particle in circular motion relates to its properties, specifically radius (r), angular frequency (ω), and mass (m), using dimensional analysis. The participant expresses a lack of background knowledge in physics due to taking AP Physics as a first-year course and seeks guidance on the problem. They mention their previous experience with calculus and introductory physics but are struggling with dimensional analysis. Suggestions include considering the units of ω, r, and m to derive the relationship that results in units of linear speed (m/s). The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding how to manipulate these units to solve the problem effectively.
Charli
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1. Homework Statement :
Use dimensional analysis to determine how the linear speed (v in m/s) of a particle traveling in a circle depends on some, or all, of the following properties: r is the radius of the circle; ω is an angular frequency in s-1 with which the particle orbits about the circle, and m is the mass of the particle. There is no dimensionless constant involved in the relation. (Use r for radius, omega for ω, and m for mass in your answer, as necessary.)



2. Homework Equations :



3. The Attempt at a Solution :
My school allows students to take AP Physics as a first year course, though it's designed to be a second year course following Physics Honors. Consequently, I'm lacking some background.

I took AP Calc AB/BC last year (passed the test with 3s in both AB and BC). Also, I've taken a bit of introductory physics as part of the NJROTC program at my school, and through that and reading through a bit of The Principles of Naval Engineering, I can understand physics fairly well when it's explained a bit. I tried to find a dimensional analysis tutorial on this site, but I wasn't having much success.

If someone could point me in the right direction or walk me through this problem, that would be wonderful.

The deadline for the assignment this question is on is 23:59 30Aug09.
 
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Hi Charli, welcome to PF!:smile:

Hint: What are the units of \omega? What are the units of r? What are the units of m? How would you multiply/divide powers of \omega, r and m together to get something with units of v (m/s)?
 
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