What is the difference between uniform circular motion and non-uniform circular motion? Give examples.

The distinction between uniform circular motion and non-uniform circular motion lies primarily in the speed of the object moving along a circular path.

Uniform Circular Motion

In uniform circular motion, an object travels around a circular path at a constant speed. Although the speed remains unchanged, the direction of the object's velocity continuously changes, resulting in an acceleration directed towards the center of the circle.

Example

• A satellite orbiting Earth at a steady speed.
• A car moving around a circular track at a constant speed.

Non-Uniform Circular Motion

In contrast, non-uniform circular motion occurs when an object moves along a circular path but changes its speed. This means that both the magnitude and direction of the velocity are varying, leading to a more complex acceleration pattern.

Example

• A roller coaster navigating a circular loop while speeding up or slowing down.
• A car taking a turn while accelerating or decelerating.

In summary, the key difference is that uniform circular motion maintains a constant speed, while non-uniform circular motion involves changes in speed as the object moves along the circular path.