Uniform Circular Motion (UCM)

Definition

Uniform circular motion refers to the motion of an object moving in a circle at a constant speed. The object experiences a continuous change in direction but its speed remains constant.

Analogy

Imagine you are riding a carousel at an amusement park. As the carousel spins, you move in a circle at a steady pace. Although your speed doesn't change, you constantly change direction as you go around.

Related terms

Centripetal Force: This force is directed towards the center of the circular path and keeps an object moving in uniform circular motion.

Tangential Velocity: It is the velocity of an object tangent to its circular path at any given point.

Periodic Motion: This term refers to any type of motion that repeats itself after a certain time interval.