Tangential acceleration (a_t)

Definition

Tangential acceleration refers to how fast an object's tangential velocity changes over time. It occurs when there is a change in speed or direction of motion along a curved path.

Related terms

Tangential velocity: The instantaneous velocity of an object at any given point along its curved path.

Radial acceleration: The component of acceleration that points towards or away from the center of curvature, perpendicular to tangential acceleration.

Uniform circular motion: Circular motion where both speed and direction remain constant, resulting in zero tangential acceleration.