Mini PhysicsPart of Mini Education

Interactive practice

Circular Motion & Gravitation Explorer

Compare circular-motion models and orbit changes while keeping centripetal ideas and gravitation trends aligned.

  • A Level
  • Explore first
  • 13 min
BetaReviewed May 2026Back to A Level Core

Focus: Keep the inward-force picture fixed first, then compare how radius changes affect speed, period, field strength, and potential.

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Interactive stageLive model

Study lensUse centripetal acceleration and force directions correctly for circular motion questions.13 min activity

Try this

Keep the inward-force picture fixed first, then compare how radius changes affect speed, period, field strength, and potential.

Learn to

  • Use centripetal acceleration and force directions correctly for circular motion questions.
  • Connect v²/r, ω²r, period, and frequency without mixing tangential and radial ideas.
  • Compare orbital speed, period, field strength, and potential at different radii.

Exam transfer

  • Orbit reasoning
  • Graph/trend comparison

Governing idea

Centripetal acceleration a = v²/r = ω²r, gravitational force F = GMm/r², and gravity supplies the centripetal resultant for an ideal circular orbit.

Model boundary

Orbiting bodies are treated as point masses in circular orbits, with other bodies and atmospheric drag ignored.

Avoid this trap

Centripetal force is not an extra force; it is the name for the inward resultant supplied by real forces such as gravity or tension.

Practice run

Choose a mode and checkpoint count when you want scoring.

Try Circular Motion Quiz

Choose your checkpoint count for guided or challenge mode.

Orbit setup

Main mode
2.1 R
6.8 km s⁻¹
1.00 M⊕
Comparison controls
Radius comparison and force
4.5 R
800 kg

Orbit checkpoint

What to notice:

Prediction target:

      What you'll train

      Learning objectives

      • Use centripetal acceleration and force directions correctly for circular motion questions.
      • Connect v²/r, ω²r, period, and frequency without mixing tangential and radial ideas.
      • Compare orbital speed, period, field strength, and potential at different radii.

      Use this when

      • A Level circular motion and gravitation revision
      • Students who remember formulas but still hesitate over orbit comparisons and direction questions
      Related lessons
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