System of particles and rotational motion | Khan Academy
Everything you've learned about motion, forces, energy, and momentum can be reused to analyze rotating objects. There are some differences, though. Here, you'll learn about rotational motion, moments, torque, and angular momentum.
Overview
Added
March 18, 2026
Subject & domain
physics · rotational-motion
Grade range
Grade 9 (Freshman)–Grade 12 (Senior)
Page kind
Course
Introduction
Unit 7: System of Particles and Rotational Motion
- Core Concept: Application of existing knowledge regarding motion, forces, energy, and momentum to analyze rotating objects.
- Key Topics Covered:
- Center of Mass: Locating the center of mass for systems and two-particle models.
- Rotational Kinematics: Angular and tangential acceleration.
- Dynamics: Torque, force diagrams, and the rotational version of Newton's second law.
- Inertia and Energy: Predicting rotational inertia and rotational kinetic energy (including rolling).
- Angular Momentum: Calculations involving angular momentum, angular impulse, and conservation laws during collisions.
- Assessment Structure: The unit includes three quizzes and a final unit test to evaluate mastery of rotational concepts.
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