A body moving in a circular path with a constant speed has a -a)consta...
Understanding Circular Motion
When a body moves in a circular path at a constant speed, it exhibits unique characteristics due to its continuous change in direction. Let's explore why the correct answer is constant kinetic energy.
Constant Speed vs. Velocity
- Speed vs. Velocity: Speed is a scalar quantity, meaning it only has magnitude. In contrast, velocity is a vector quantity, which has both magnitude and direction.
- Changing Direction: Although the speed is constant, the direction of the velocity vector changes continuously, making the velocity itself non-constant.
Acceleration in Circular Motion
- Centripetal Acceleration: A body moving in a circular path experiences centripetal acceleration directed towards the center of the circle.
- Constant Acceleration: While this acceleration is constant in magnitude, its direction changes, indicating that it is not constant in the conventional sense.
Constant Kinetic Energy
- Kinetic Energy Formula: Kinetic energy (KE) is given by the formula KE = 1/2 mv², where m is mass and v is speed.
- Impact of Constant Speed: Since the speed remains unchanged during circular motion, the kinetic energy of the body also remains constant.
- Independence from Direction: Kinetic energy does not depend on the direction of motion, only on the speed.
Displacement in Circular Motion
- Variable Displacement: While moving in a circular path, the displacement (the shortest distance between the initial and final points) changes continuously.
- Cyclic Nature: After one complete revolution, the displacement is zero, further indicating that it is not constant.
In summary, while the body moving in a circular path has constant speed and kinetic energy, its velocity, acceleration, and displacement vary. Thus, the correct answer is option 'C' - constant kinetic energy.
A body moving in a circular path with a constant speed has a -a)consta...
In circular motion, the magnitude of the velocity of the body is constant but the direction is constantly changing.