# Incorrect derivation of tangential acceleration in polar coordinates

yucheng
Homework Statement:
N/A
Relevant Equations:
N/A
I am trying to derive the tangential acceleration of a particle. We have tangential velocity, radius and angular velocity. $$v_{tangential}= \omega r$$ then by multiplication rule, $$\dot v_{tangential} = a_{tangential} = \dot \omega r + \omega \dot r$$ and $$a_{tangential} = \ddot \theta r + \dot \theta \dot r$$ However, we also have $$\vec{a} = (\ddot r - r \dot \theta^2)\hat{r} + (r \ddot \theta + 2 \dot r \dot \theta)\hat{\theta}$$, which implies $$a_{tangential} = \ddot \theta r + 2 \dot \theta \dot r$$

Now, what's wrong?

Homework Helper
Gold Member
2022 Award
$$v_{tangential}= \omega r$$ then by multiplication rule, $$\dot v_{tangential} = a_{tangential} = \dot \omega r + \omega \dot r$$
You have essentially proved that ##a_T \ne \dot v_T##. The equation does not hold where the unit vectors change with position, hence time.

yucheng
You have essentially proved that ##a_T \ne \dot v_T##. The equation does not hold where the unit vectors change with position, hence time.
Hmmmm... Is there any way to make it hold when unit vectors change position? By the way, is there a reason why it does not hold?