Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Rotational dynamics refers to the study of the motion and behavior of objects that are rotating or in rotational motion. It involves understanding concepts such as torque, angular acceleration, and moment of inertia.
Angular acceleration is the rate at which an object's angular velocity changes over time. It is analogous to linear acceleration in translational motion.
Moment of inertia is a property that quantifies an object's resistance to changes in its rotational motion. It depends on both the mass distribution and shape of the object.