Direction of tangential acceleration

In summary, tangential acceleration refers to the rate of change of tangential velocity in circular motion. It can be calculated using the formula a = v^2/r or by taking the second derivative of the position equation. Tangential acceleration is different from centripetal acceleration, as it is perpendicular to the radius of the circle. It can either increase or decrease an object's speed depending on its direction, and can be negative if it is in the opposite direction of the tangential velocity. However, the magnitude of the acceleration is always positive.
  • #1
shanewatson
8
0
where is the direction of tangential acceleration? Does tangential acceleration depend on direction of tangential velocity or not?
 
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  • #2
It depends on your setup. If you have some specific setup in mind, please explain that.
 

1. What is tangential acceleration?

Tangential acceleration refers to the rate of change of tangential velocity, which is the component of velocity that is perpendicular to the radius of a circular motion. In simpler terms, it is the acceleration that causes an object to move in a circular path.

2. How is tangential acceleration calculated?

Tangential acceleration can be calculated using the formula a = v^2/r, where "a" is the tangential acceleration, "v" is the tangential velocity, and "r" is the radius of the circular motion. Alternatively, it can also be calculated by taking the second derivative of the position equation with respect to time.

3. What is the difference between tangential and centripetal acceleration?

While tangential acceleration is the acceleration that causes an object to move in a circular path, centripetal acceleration is the acceleration that is directed towards the center of the circular motion. In other words, tangential acceleration is a component of centripetal acceleration that is perpendicular to the radius of the circle.

4. How does tangential acceleration affect an object's speed?

Tangential acceleration can either increase or decrease an object's speed, depending on its direction. If tangential acceleration is in the same direction as the tangential velocity, it will cause the object to speed up. Conversely, if they are in opposite directions, the object will slow down.

5. Can tangential acceleration be negative?

Yes, tangential acceleration can be negative. This means that the object is slowing down or changing direction, as the acceleration is in the opposite direction of the tangential velocity. However, the magnitude of the acceleration will still be positive, as it is calculated using the square of the tangential velocity.

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