Circular Motion and Gravitation
Learn the complete H1 Physics 8867 Circular Motion and Gravitation scope through clear explanations, worked methods and purposeful practice.
Learning goals
- Express angular displacement in radians and use s = rθ.
- Relate angular velocity, period, frequency and tangential speed using v = rω.
- Explain and apply centripetal acceleration and resultant-force relationships.
- Apply Newton's law of gravitation to point and spherical masses.
- Derive and apply gravitational field strength, including the near-surface model.
- Analyse circular gravitational orbits and geostationary satellite conditions.
Before you begin
Start with the first lesson if this topic is new. If you are revising, use Check your understanding to find the lesson that deserves your attention, then work from the explanation to supported and independent practice.
Be comfortable with: Collisions
How the ideas connect
- Uniform circular-motion kinematics and force
- Inverse-square gravitation and near-Earth field
- Circular and geostationary orbits
Learn in order
Lesson route
Learn the topic
- 01Uniform circular-motion kinematics and forceUniform circular motion has constant speed but changing velocity. Radians link angle to arc length, and the inward resultant force supplies the centripetal acceleration.35 min
- 02Inverse-square gravitation and near-Earth fieldNewton’s inverse-square law describes the gravitational interaction at any separation. Constant g is a useful near-Earth approximation, not a universal rule.35 min
- 03Circular and geostationary orbitsA satellite in circular orbit is continually falling around the planet. Gravity supplies the inward acceleration; no forward thrust is required in the ideal model.35 min
Check your understanding
Practice and check
What you will learn
These lessons cover the complete H1 Circular Motion and Gravitation scope in a deliberate order.
- Use radians, angular displacement and angular velocity.
- Connect angular and linear speed using v = rω.
- Use Newton’s law of gravitation for two masses.
- Relate gravitational field strength to free-fall acceleration.
- Analyse a circular orbit by equating gravity with centripetal force.
- Explain how orbital speed and period depend on radius.
Syllabus and review details
Covers the complete 2027 H1 Physics 8867 requirements for Circular Motion and Gravitation; H2-only extensions are deliberately left out.
Use written working, labelled diagrams and clear physical reasoning as well as final answers. The lesson questions are designed to prepare you for both calculations and explanations.
Curriculum and content checked 2026-09-14
Frequently asked questions
Where should I start in Circular Motion and Gravitation?
Start with Uniform circular-motion kinematics and force. The 3 lessons build in order, and each one ends with an independent question and a clear next step.
How should I use the worked examples?
Cover the steps, attempt the question first, then compare your method line by line. Check the sign, direction, unit and size of your result.
What should I do when I finish the lessons?
Use Check your understanding, revisit any weak lesson, then complete the practice plan without looking at the worked answers.
Course and syllabus information
- Course
- GCE A-Level H1 Physics
- Edition
- GCE A-Level H1 Physics 2027