Physics for Technology, Second Edition, 2nd Edition

5

Rotational Motion

In this chapter, we will discuss rotational motion. We will apply our equations to wheels, motors, and anything else that rotates (Figure 5.1).

FIGURE 5.1   A top.

Any point on a circle can be described by its radius r from the center and an angle θ. The angle can be measured in degrees, revolutions, or radians (Figure 5.2).

FIGURE 5.2   A point on a circle can be described by its radius r from the center and an angle θ measured in degrees, revolutions, or radians.

Comparing the three units:

1rev=360°=2πrad

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