Kinematics

Kinematics is the branch of physics that describes the motion of points, bodies (objects), and systems of bodies (groups of objects) without considering the forces that cause them to move. Kinematics, as a field of study, is often referred to as the "geometry of motion."

Basic concepts

Kinematics is used in astrophysics to describe the motion of celestial bodies and collections of such bodies. In mechanical engineering, robotics, and biomechanics kinematics is used to describe the motion of systems composed of joined parts (multi-link systems) such as an engine, a robotic arm or the human skeleton.

Time

Time is a key variable that tells the observer when the motion of interest takes place. The time is often measured in seconds (s), but can also be measured in hours (h), minutes (min) or other units of time.

Displacement

Displacement is the change in position of an object. It is a vector quantity with both magnitude and direction.

Velocity

Velocity is the rate of change of displacement. It is a vector quantity with both magnitude and direction.

Acceleration

Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity. It is a vector quantity with both magnitude and direction.

Types of motion

Kinematics can describe various types of motion, including translational motion, rotational motion, and oscillatory motion.

Translational motion

Translational motion is the motion by which a body moves in a line from one point in space to another.

Rotational motion

Rotational motion is the motion of an object around a center (or point) of rotation.

Oscillatory motion

Oscillatory motion is the motion of swinging back and forth in a regular cycle.

See also

• Dynamics (physics)
• Statics
• Four-vector
• Rigid body dynamics

Kinematics Resources
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