What is the derivation of the centripetal acceleration in terms of position?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the derivation of centripetal acceleration in terms of position, specifically using the position function r(t) for a particle in uniform circular motion. The original poster presents a function for r(t) and seeks clarification on expressing acceleration without relying on certain variables.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between velocity and acceleration in circular motion, with some attempting to derive acceleration from the position function. Questions arise regarding the correctness of expressions and the dependence on specific variables.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered expressions for acceleration and are exploring the implications of these equations. There is an acknowledgment of stress related to finals, indicating a shared experience among participants. However, no explicit consensus has been reached regarding the derivation.

Contextual Notes

One participant notes that the problem is part of a Mastering Engineering question, which may impose specific constraints on the solution format. There is also mention of a need for corrections, reflecting uncertainty in the presented approaches.

unknown_2
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This problem has been discussed before, but one of the parts were not discussed.

Homework Statement


Your calculation is actually a derivation of the centripetal acceleration. To see this, express the acceleration of the particle in terms of its position r(t).

r(t) = Rcos(\omega t)\textbf{i} + Rsin(\omega t)\textbf{j}

Homework Equations



v = \omega R
a = \frac{v^2}{R}
a = \omega v

The Attempt at a Solution



v = \frac{d}{dt}r(t) \times \omega

btw, this is a Mastering engineering question, so i submitted and it says that:
The correct answer does not depend on the variables and functions: d, d, r.

is there another way to display this or am i missing something?

thx,
 
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Acceleration = V^2/R = w^2*R. In a uniform circular motion w and R are constant.
 
rl.bhat said:
Acceleration = V^2/R = w^2*R. In a uniform circular motion w and R are constant.

omg...too stressed out about finals...i think i got it =_=

please correct me if I'm wrong (again)...

a(t) = -\omega^{2}r(t)
 
unknown_2 said:
omg...too stressed out about finals...i think i got it =_=

please correct me if I'm wrong (again)...

a(t) = -<b>\omega^{2}r(t)</b>

If you express in the vector form, it is correct.
 

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