Displacement graph of an orbiting body

In summary, displacement time graphs are used to plot an object's motion around it's origin. If the object is rotating, the x- and y-coordinates will change as a function of time.
  • #1
SirJuantum
2
1
If I were to draw a displacement time graph of an arm rotating around it's origin at a constant radius meaning it is a constant displacement from the origin. Meaning the graph looks the same as one of an item that is not moving,how would you draw the displacement time graph of something moving in a circle around the origin
 
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  • #2
Hello Sir J, :welcome:

You plot the x-coordinate as a function of time, and you plot the y-coordinate as a function of time !
If it starts at ##(x,y) = (R,0)## and turns counter-clockwise, the one is ##R\cos\omega t## and the other is ##R\sin\omega t##

[edit] I hope this animation doesn't confuse you too much ... ? Or this

[edit]
SirJuantum said:
meaning it is a constant displacement from the origin
Note that this is not correct: displacement is a vector with an x-coordinate and a y-coordinate in your case. The distance from the origin (the length of the vector) is constant, but not the orientation. In fact you could also plot your arm motion by plotting the angle as a function of time, something like ##\phi = \omega t## -- so pretty boring...
 
Last edited:
  • #3
BvU said:
Hello Sir J, :welcome:

You plot the x-coordinate as a function of time, and you plot the y-coordinate as a function of time !
If it starts at ##(x,y) = (R,0)## and turns counter-clockwise, the one is ##R\cos\omega t## and the other is ##R\sin\omega t##

[edit] I hope this animation doesn't confuse you too much ... ? Or this

[edit]
Note that this is not correct: displacement is a vector with an x-coordinate and a y-coordinate in your case. The distance from the origin (the length of the vector) is constant, but not the orientation. In fact you could also plot your arm motion by plotting the angle as a function of time, something like ##\phi = \omega t## -- so pretty boring...

YeS this cleared it up completely thank you:D it was just a curiosity I made and I see the error with the scalar and vector quantities
 
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Likes BvU

FAQ: Displacement graph of an orbiting body

What is a displacement graph of an orbiting body?

A displacement graph of an orbiting body is a type of graph that shows the position of an orbiting body over time. It is a visual representation of the orbit of the body, showing how its position changes as it moves around another object, such as a planet or star.

How is a displacement graph of an orbiting body created?

A displacement graph of an orbiting body is created by plotting the distance of the body from its center of rotation on the y-axis, and the time on the x-axis. The resulting graph will typically be a curved line, as the distance of the body from its center of rotation changes continuously as it orbits.

What information can be obtained from a displacement graph of an orbiting body?

A displacement graph of an orbiting body can provide information about the orbit itself, such as the shape, size, and speed of the orbit. It can also show how the distance of the body from its center of rotation changes over time, and any variations in the orbit due to external forces.

How is a displacement graph of an orbiting body useful in scientific research?

A displacement graph of an orbiting body is useful in scientific research as it allows scientists to analyze and understand the behavior of orbiting bodies. It can provide insights into the physical laws that govern these orbits, and help in predicting and planning future space missions.

Are there any limitations to using a displacement graph of an orbiting body?

While a displacement graph of an orbiting body can provide valuable information, there are some limitations to consider. It only shows the position of the body and not other factors such as velocity or acceleration. Additionally, it assumes a perfect and consistent orbit, which may not always be the case in real-life scenarios.

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