Circular motion refers to the movement of an object along a circular path. This can occur at a constant speed, known as uniform circular motion, or with changing speed. The object experiences a continuous change in direction, which requires a force directed toward the center of the circle, called centripetal force. Examples of circular motion include a car turning around a curve or a planet orbiting a star. In both cases, the object maintains a circular path due to the influence of forces acting upon it, ensuring it does not move in a straight line.