Question 232: Work, Energy and Power & Circular Motion

Question

For a particle in uniform circular motion

Accepted Answer

Answer: Option B
Explanation:
In uniform circular motion, the speed (magnitude of the linear velocity) remains constant, but the direction of the velocity continuously changes. The linear velocity at any point along the circular path is always directed
tangentially
to the circle. Since the speed is constant, its magnitude does not change.
Key points to note:
Linear velocity:
For a particle moving in a circle, the instantaneous linear velocity vector is directed along the tangent to the circle at the particleÃ¢ÂÂs position. The magnitude of this velocity remains constant in uniform circular motion.
Linear acceleration (centripetal acceleration):
Although not asked directly in the correct option, the acceleration in uniform circular motion is directed radially inward (towards the center of the circle), not tangentially or along any axis perpendicular to the plane of the circle.
Thus, the only correct statement given the options is that the linear velocity is always tangential to the circular path and its magnitude remains unchanged in uniform circular motion.

Answer

linear velocity always radial to the circular path, without change in its magnitude

Answer

linear velocity always tangential to the circular path, without change in its magnitude

Answer

linear acceleration always tangential to the circular path

Answer

linear acceleration always along the axis of the circular path

Work, Energy and Power & Circular Motion

For a particle in uniform circular motion

Choose the correct answer: