Tangential Velocity

Definition

Tangential velocity refers to the instantaneous linear speed of an object moving along a curved path. It represents how fast an object is moving in the direction tangent to its circular path.

Analogy

Imagine you are riding a roller coaster and you reach the top of a loop. The tangential velocity at that point determines how fast you would fly off if there were no track above you.

Related terms

Centripetal Acceleration: This term refers to the acceleration experienced by an object moving in a circular path, directed towards the center of the circle.

Angular Velocity: Angular velocity is the rate at which an object rotates around a fixed axis. It measures how quickly an object is changing its angular position.

Centripetal Force: Centripetal force is the net force acting on an object moving in a circular path, directed towards the center of the circle. It keeps objects from flying off their circular paths.