AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based Flashcards: Newton’s Second Law in Rotational Form
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
State the equation for Newton's Second Law in rotational form.
Newton's Second Law in rotational form is given by the equation: $\sum\tau_{sys} = I_{sys}\alpha$.
Card 1 of 10
All Flashcards (10)
State the equation for Newton's Second Law in rotational form.
Newton's Second Law in rotational form is given by the equation: $\sum\tau_{sys} = I_{sys}\alpha$.
If a system's rotational inertia is doubled while the net torque remains constant, what happens to its angular acceleration?
The angular acceleration will be halved, because it is inversely proportional to the rotational inertia.
A wheel spins with a constant angular velocity. What can be concluded about the net torque on the wheel?
If angular velocity is constant, angular acceleration is zero, which means the net torque exerted on the wheel must be zero.
What determines the direction of a system's angular acceleration?
The direction of the angular acceleration is the same as the direction of the net torque exerted on the rigid system.
Under what condition does a system's angular velocity change?
A system's angular velocity changes when the net torque exerted on the object or system is not equal to zero.
What types of analyses might be required to fully describe a rotating rigid system?
To fully describe a rotating rigid system, both linear and rotational analyses may need to be performed independently.
What do the variables in the equation $\sum\tau_{sys} = I_{sys}\alpha$ represent?
$\sum\tau_{sys}$ is the net torque, $I_{sys}$ is the rotational inertia, and $\alpha$ is the angular acceleration of the rigid system.
How is the angular acceleration of a rigid system related to its rotational inertia?
The angular acceleration of a rigid system is inversely proportional to the rotational inertia of the system.
How is the angular acceleration of a rigid system related to the net torque exerted on it?
The angular acceleration of a rigid system is directly proportional to the net torque exerted on it and is in the same direction as the net torque.
If the net torque on a rigid system is doubled while its rotational inertia is constant, what happens to its angular acceleration?
The angular acceleration will also double, because it is directly proportional to the net torque.