Perpendicular force from cross product

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the use of the cross product to determine the perpendicular vector to two vectors in a plane. It highlights that in circular motion, the centripetal force is perpendicular to the velocity vector when the motion is uniform. The conversation also critiques the clarity of the original question, which conflates the concepts of cross product and circular motion without establishing a clear connection between them. Ultimately, the focus is on understanding the relationship between force and velocity in circular motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector mathematics and operations, specifically cross product
  • Knowledge of circular motion dynamics
  • Familiarity with centripetal force concepts
  • Basic principles of uniform motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical properties of the cross product in vector analysis
  • Explore the relationship between centripetal force and velocity in circular motion
  • Investigate examples of uniform circular motion and the forces involved
  • Learn about vector decomposition and its applications in physics
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching vector mathematics, and anyone interested in the dynamics of circular motion and force interactions.

Miraj Kayastha
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Cross product is used to find the perpendicular vector of two vectors. If there is any two vectors in a plane then there is always a perpendicular vector to both of them.

So in circular motion if the motion is horizontal then is there a perpendicular force to the object in circular motion?
 
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Perpendicular to what?
The centripetal force is perpendicular to the velocity vector, if the motion is uniform.
 
That's a confused question. You start by talking about cross product and then end up asking a question about circular motion without ever linking one thing to the other.
 
dauto said:
That's a confused question. You start by talking about cross product and then end up asking a question about circular motion without ever linking one thing to the other.
Maybe he is asking if there are two vectors(Velocity and Force) in circular motion,what is the perpendicular vector to both of them?
 
adjacent said:
Maybe he is asking if there are two vectors(Velocity and Force) in circular motion,what is the perpendicular vector to both of them?

May be, may be not. How is one supposed to tell when the question does not give a clue? It always amazes me how often people can't take the time and put the effort to write a post that makes sense.
 
Last edited:

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