Tangential acceleration

Definition

Tangential acceleration is the rate of change of the tangential velocity of an object moving along a circular path. It is directed along the tangent to the path of motion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tangential acceleration is calculated using the formula $a_t = \alpha r$, where $\alpha$ is the angular acceleration and $r$ is the radius.
2. It affects only the magnitude of tangential velocity, not its direction.
3. When an object moves in uniform circular motion, tangential acceleration is zero because angular velocity remains constant.
4. Tangential acceleration can be positive or negative, indicating speeding up or slowing down respectively along the tangent to the circular path.
5. The SI unit for tangential acceleration is meters per second squared (m/s²).

Review Questions

• What formula relates tangential acceleration to angular acceleration and radius?
• How does tangential acceleration affect an object's motion in uniform circular motion?
• What are the units for measuring tangential acceleration?

Related terms

Angular Acceleration:

The rate of change of angular velocity over time, usually measured in radians per second squared (rad/s²).

Centripetal Acceleration:

The acceleration directed towards the center of a circular path, keeping an object moving in that path.

Uniform Circular Motion:

Motion in a circular path at constant speed; here, tangential acceleration is zero.