Q5-15DQ - University Physics with Modern Physics

Question

If there is a net force on a particle in uniform circular motion, why doesn’t the particle’s speed change?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The particle’s speed doesn’t change as no net force’s component is in the direction of the velocity of that particle

Step 1: Significance of the speed

The speed is described as the distance that an object covers in a particular time frame. The velocity is also directly proportional to the force exerted on a particular object.

Step 2: Determination of the reason the particle’s speed does not change

The net force is the centripetal force that causes the particle to be in motion or acceleration. The force mainly acts in the direction of the object along the center of the rotation of that object. The velocity of the particle is perpendicular to the direction of the force of that object. Hence, as the acceleration is mainly perpendicular to the velocity that causes the change in the direction of the velocity.

 Thus, the particle’s speed doesn’t change as no net force’s component is in the direction of the velocity of that particle.