Rotation

Rotation is a circular movement of an object around a center (or axis) of rotation. A three-dimensional object can rotate an infinite number of ways.

In mathematics, a rotation is a transformation that moves a point around a fixed point (the center of rotation) by a certain angle. The rotation preserves the distance to the center of rotation. Rotations are important in geometry, linear algebra, and physics.

In physics, rotation is a fundamental type of motion. Examples include the rotation of the Earth around its axis, the rotation of a wheel, and the rotation of a molecule. The rate of rotation is often measured in radians per second or revolutions per minute (RPM). Concepts like angular velocity, angular momentum, and torque are essential for understanding rotational motion.

The axis of rotation is a line about which an object rotates. If the axis passes through the center of mass of the body, the body is said to be rotating upon itself, or spinning. A two-dimensional object rotates about a point.

The direction of a rotation can be specified as clockwise or counterclockwise, relative to a given point of view. In three dimensions, specifying the axis of rotation and an angle is usually required to fully define the rotation.