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Rotation and Torque

Rotation is around 20%–30% of your AP test. This unit focuses on how objects rotate. You will learn about angular velocity, angular acceleration, torque, and rotational inertia. Understanding these ideas helps you solve problems about spinning objects and how forces cause rotation.

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Rotational motion is the study of how spinning motion is created, changed, and conserved. In AP Physics C: Mechanics, this unit builds on dynamics by introducing torque, rotational inertia, angular momentum, and the conservation of angular momentum. It focuses on how forces and torques affect the rotation of objects and systems. Mastery of rotational motion helps you analyze problems involving spinning objects, rotating systems, and collisions where rotation matters.
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Relevant Formulas On Equation Sheet:

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Concept 1: Angular Kinematics

Key Topic 1: Angular Displacement, Velocity, and Acceleration

Key Topic 2: Angular Kinematic Equations (Constant α)

Concept 2: Moment of Inertia

Key Topic 1: Definition and Significance

Key Topic 2: Common Examples of Moment of Inertia

Key Topic 3: Parallel Axis Theorem

Concept 3: Torque and Rotational Dynamics

Key Topic 1: Torque Definition

Key Topic 2: Newton's Second Law for Rotation

Concept 4: Angular Momentum

Key Topic 1: Definition of Angular Momentum

Key Topic 2: Conservation of Angular Momentum

Concept 5: Rotational Energy and Power

Key Topic 1: Rotational Kinetic Energy

Key Topic 2: Work and Power in Rotation

Concept 6: Rolling Motion and Energy Conservation

Key Topic 1: Rolling Without Slipping

Key Topic 2: Energy Conservation with Rolling

Key Topic 3: Collision Examples

Practice Tests

Practice Test 1: Rotation

Practice Test 2: Rotation

🧭 Rotation: Check for Understanding