Introduction
In this unit of AP Physics 1, you’ll explore how rotational motion involves the transfer and conservation of mechanical energy and angular momentum — just like linear motion, but with spinning systems. Concepts such as rotational kinetic energy, moment of inertia, angular momentum, and conservation laws are key.
Summary of Key Equations
1. K₍rot₎ = ½·I·ω² (Rotational kinetic energy)
2. L = I·ω (Angular momentum)
3. ΣL₍initial₎ = ΣL₍final₎ (Conservation of angular momentum for isolated systems)
4. W₍rot₎ = τ·Δθ (Work done by a torque over angular displacement)
2. L = I·ω (Angular momentum)
3. ΣL₍initial₎ = ΣL₍final₎ (Conservation of angular momentum for isolated systems)
4. W₍rot₎ = τ·Δθ (Work done by a torque over angular displacement)
Demonstration & Video Resources
- Spinning in a Chair Physics Demo Explained — demonstration of angular momentum in practice
- 7 Energy and Momentum Demos That Will Engage Your Students — more demonstrations to visualise rotating systems
- Unit 6: Energy & Momentum of Rotating Systems — full review video
- AP Physics 1 – Unit 6 Review (Rotating Systems) — quicker review
- Rotational Kinetic Energy (Energy & Momentum of Rotating Systems) — focused topic video
- Khan Academy: Energy & Momentum of Rotating Systems — interactive learning resource