Question

A particle is moving in a horizontal circle with a constant speed. Which of the following remains constant?

• A. Kinetic energy of the body
• B. Momentum of the body
• C. Radial acceleration
• D. Displacement of the body from the center of the circle

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Kinetic energy of the body

The explanation for the correct option:

Option (A): Kinetic energy of the body

1. When the object moves in a horizontal circle with a constant speed, the kinetic energy of the object will remain constant.
2. Since the speed is constant, no centripetal force is acting on the body.

The explanation for the incorrect options:

Option (B): Momentum of the body

1. Since the body is moving in a circular path, the velocity of the body is zero. Hence, the momentum will also be zero.

Option (C): Radial acceleration

1. Since no centripetal force is acting on the body, the radial acceleration of the body is zero.

Option (D): Displacement of the body from the center of the circle

1. The body is moving in a circular path in a fixed radius, so there is no displacement. The displacement is also zero, from the center.

Thus option A is correct, the kinetic energy of the body will remain constant in a particle is moving in a horizontal circle with a constant speed.