Angular velocity

Definition

Angular velocity is the rate of change of the rotation angle with respect to time. It is usually measured in radians per second (rad/s).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Angular velocity ($\omega$) is calculated as $\omega = \frac{\theta}{t}$, where $\theta$ is the rotation angle and $t$ is the time.
2. The direction of angular velocity follows the right-hand rule, perpendicular to the plane of rotation.
3. In uniform circular motion, angular velocity remains constant.
4. Angular velocity can be related to linear velocity ($v$) through the equation $v = r\omega$, where $r$ is the radius of the circular path.
5. Units for angular velocity are typically radians per second (rad/s), but can also be degrees per second.

Review Questions

• How do you calculate angular velocity using rotation angle and time?
• What rule determines the direction of angular velocity?
• How does uniform circular motion affect angular velocity?

Related terms

Rotation Angle:

The amount by which a point or line has been rotated in a specified sense about a specified axis.

Linear Velocity:

The rate of change of position with respect to time; it can be related to angular velocity by $v = r\omega$.

Centripetal Acceleration:

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