TG: @Chalnaayaaar

01 Circular Motion

Introduction of Circular Motion

If a particle moves in a plane such that its distance from a fixed (or moving) point remains constant, then
the motion is called circular motion with respect to that fixed or moving point.
That fixed point is called the centre and the corresponding distance is called the radius of circular path.
The vector joining centre of circle and particle performing circular motion is called radius vector. It has
constant magnitude and variable direction.
Angular Position, Displacement, Velocity, Frequency, Time Period
Angular position:
To decide the angular position of a point in space we need to specify (i) origin and (ii) reference line.
The angle made by the position vector w.r.t. origin, with the reference line
y
is called angular position.
Clearly angular position depends on the choice of the origin as well as the
reference line. P
Circular motion is a two dimensional motion or motion in a plane. X
 x
Suppose a particle P is moving in a circle of radius r and centre O. O
Reference line
The angular position of the particle P at a given instant may be described
by the angle  between OP and OX. This angle  is called the angular
position of the particle.
• Unit : radian (SI)
• Clockwise angular position is taken as negative and anticlockwise displacement as positive
Angular Displacement:
y
Angle through which the position vector of the moving particle rotates in a
given time interval is called angular displacement. B
Angular displacement depends on origin, but it does not depend on the
 A
reference line. As the particle moves on above circle, its angular position 
changes. Suppose the point rotates through an angle  in time t, then  x
O
is angular displacement.
Arc s
Angular displacement =   =
Radius r
• Unit : radian (SI)
• It is a dimensionless quantity.
• Always change degree into radian, if it occurs in numerical problems.
360o
1 radian =  radian = 180°
2
• If a body makes n revolutions, its angular displacement  = 2n radians
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [3]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Important Points:
• Clockwise angular displacement is taken as negative and anticlockwise displacement as positive.
• It is an axial vector and direction of angular displacement is perpendicular to the plane along the
axis of rotation and is given by right hand thumb rule.
• Small angular displacement is a vector quantity,
But large angular displacement is not a vector quantity, because it does not follow commutative
law of vector addition. d1 + d2 = d2 + d1 but 1 + 2  2 + 1
• In one complete revolution angular displacement is 2 radian.
Frequency (n):
Number of revolutions described by particle per second is its frequency.
Unit : Revolutions per second (rps) or Revolutions per minute (rpm)
1 rps = 60 rpm
Time Period (T):
1
It is the time taken by particle to complete one revolution. i.e. T =
n
Unit : hertz (Hz) or s-1
Illustration 1:
rd
1
A particle completes revolution in 0.6s. Find
3
(i) Time period (ii) Frequency (iii) Angular displacement after 1.8s
Solution:
rd
1
(i) Particle completes revolution in 0.6s
3
0.6
 Time taken by the particle to completes one revolution = = 1.8s
1/3
1 1
(ii) T =  n= hertz (Hz) or s–1
n 1.8
(iii) In 1.8s particle completes one revolution, so angular displacement = 2 radian
Illustration 2:
A student runs 30 m around a circular track of diameter 100 m. What is his angular displacement?
Solution:
After running 30 m, the student reaches point P at an angle θ as shown in the figure.
Angular displacement,
Δθ = θ2 – θ1 P
Here, 30 m
θ1 = 0 and

θ2 = θ x
O 50 m
Arc 30
Now,  = rad = rad (Radius = Diameter/2)
Radius 50
⇒ Angular Displacement =∆θ = 0.6 rad (Anti-clockwise)

TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[4] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Illustration 3:
A particle completes 1.5 revolutions in a circular path of radius 2cm. The angular displacement of the
particle will be - (in radian)
Solution:
Arc S
We have angular displacement =  = rad   =
Radius r
Here, S = n(2r) = 1.5 (2 × 2 × 10–2) = 6 × 10–2
6  10−2
  = = 3 radian
2  10−2
Relation between Angular Velocity and Linear Velocity
Angular velocity ()
It is defined as the rate of change of angular position of a moving particle with respect to time.
• Unit : Radian/sec • Its dimension is [M0L0T–1]
Average angular velocity (avg):
Total angular displacement  – 
avg = = av = 2 1 =
Total time taken t 2 – t 1 t
where 1 and 2 are angular position of the particle at time t1 and t2. Since angular displacement is a scalar,
average angular velocity is also a scalar.
• If a body makes ‘n’ rotations in ‘t’ seconds then average angular velocity in radian per second will be
2n
av =
t
2
• If T is the period and ‘f’ the frequency of uniform circular motion, av = = 2f
T
Illustration 4:
A particle revolving in a circular path completes first one third of the circumference in 2 s, while next one
third in 1s. Calculate its average angular velocity.
Solution:
2 2
1 = and 2 = ; Total time T = 2 + 1 = 3 s
3 3
2 2 4
+
1 + 2 3 3 4
 < av > = = = 3 = rad/s
T 3 3 9
Instantaneous angular velocity (ins):
 d
It is angular velocity at any instant of time. ins = lim =
t →0 t dt
ሬԦ
v
Since infinitesimally small angular displacement d is a vector quantity,
instantaneous angular velocity  is also a vector, whose direction is given by rԦ
right hand thumb rule.
component of velocity perpendicular to line joining o
=
length of line joining

TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [5]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Illustration 5:
If angular displacement of a particle is given by  = 2 – 2bt + 3ct2, then find its angular velocity at t = 2s.
Solution:
d
= = –2b + 6ct
dt
At t = 2s,  = –2b + 6c(2) = –2b + 12c
Relation between linear and angular velocity
s
 =
r
s = r r

Divide both the side by total time taken ∆s

o 
s 
=r
t t
r
lim t → 0
ds d
=r
dt dt
v = r ሬሬԦ
ω
In vector from, v =  r
v = Linear Velocity ሬԦ
v
 = Angular velocity
r = radius vector or position vector rԦ
Note: All the three vectors v, andr are mutually perpendicular to each other.
Here, v ⊥  ⊥ r v⊥  v. = 0
⊥ r  .r = 0
v⊥r  v.r = 0
Illustration 6:
A particle is moving with constant speed in a circular path. Find the ratio of average velocity to its

instantaneous velocity when the particle describes an angle radian.
2
Solution:
 R R
Time taken to describe angle , t = = =
 v 2v
Total displacement 2R 2 2
Average velocity = = = v
Total time R / 2v 
Instantaneous velocity = v
2 2
The ratio of average velocity to its instantaneous velocity =

Illustration 7:
25
An insect moves in a circular path of radius cm steadily and completes 10 revolutions in 50s. What is

the average angular speed and the average linear speed of the motion ?
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[6] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Solution:
25 1
Radius of the circle = cm = m
 4
Time taken for 10 revolutions = 50s
50
So, time taken for 1 revolution = time period = = 5s
10
1
So, in 1 second, = 0.2 revolution.
5
2
So, angular speed = = 2f = 2 × 0.2 = 0.4 rad s–1
T
1
And linear speed, v = r = 0.4 = 0.1m / s = 10cm / s
4
Relative Angular Velocity
Relative angular velocity of a particle 'A' w.r.t. another moving particle B is the angular velocity of the
position vector of A w.r.t. B. It means the rate at which the position
A 1
vector of 'A' w.r.t. B rotates at that instant. VB VA
(V ) relative velocity of A w.r.t. B perpendicular to line AB r
 = AB ⊥ =
rAB separation between A and B VA sin1
2
v sin 1 + v B sin 2 VB sin2
Here (vAB)⊥ = vA sin 1 + vB sin 2  wAB = A
r B
Illustration 8: P 37°
VQ VP
Two moving particles P and Q are 5 m apart at any instant. Velocity
of P is 10 m/s and that of Q is 15m/s. Calculate the angular velocity r
of P with respect to Q. 53°
Solution:
Q
Angular velocity of P with respect to

Q is ; PQ =
(v ) PQ ⊥
P 37°
rPQ 10m/s
15m/s
(v )
PQ ⊥ = 6 − (−12) = 18m /s 5m
10 sin37°=6m/s
rPQ = 5m 15 sin53° 53°
=12m/s

AB =
(v )
PQ ⊥
=
18
radian / sec Q
rPQ 5
Illustration 9:
A particle is moving with constant speed in a circle as shown, find the v
angular velocity of the particle A with respect to fixed point B and C, if r
r A
angular velocity with respect to O is . C B O
Solution:
(v ) v
Angular velocity of A with respect to O is ; AO = AO ⊥ = = 
rAO r
( v AB )⊥ v  ( v AC )⊥ v 
 AB = = = and AC = = =
rAB 2r 2 rAC 3r 3
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [7]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Illustration 10:
Particles A and B move with constant and equal speeds in a circle as shown. Find v
the angular velocity of the particle A with respect to B, if angular velocity of A
B O r
particle A w.r.t. O is .
Solution: v
Angular velocity of A with respect to O is
( v AO )⊥ v ( v AB )⊥
AO = = =  Now, AB =
rAO r rAB
vAB = 2v, since vAB is perpendicular to rAB'
( v AB )⊥ 2v
 ( v AB )⊥ = v AB = 2v ; rAB = 2r  AB = = =
rAB 2r
d
Illustration 11: v
Find angular velocity of A w.r.t. B at the instant shown in the figure. A
d
Solution: v
B
( v AB )⊥
Angular velocity of A with respect to B is ; AB =
rAB
d
(vAB)⊥ = vA cos45° – (–vBcos45°) A v
v v 45°
( v AB )⊥ = + = 2v d v
2 2 v ξ2
rAB = 2d ξ2 45° v
B
( v AB )⊥ 2v v
AB = = =
rAB 2d d
Angular Acceleration
It is defined as rate of change of angular velocity with respect to time.
Average angular acceleration ( avg ) :
Let 1 and 2 be the instantaneous angular velocities at times t1 and t2 respectively, then the average
Change in angular velocity f − i 
angular acceleration av is defined as avg = = =
Total time taken t 2 − t 1 t
Instantaneous angular velocity (  ins ) :
It is angular velocity at any instant of time.
It is the limit of average angular acceleration as t approaches zero, i.e.,
 d
 ins = lim =
t → 0 dt dt
d d
since = ,  = {When  is a function of t}
dt dt

=
d2 
{When  is a function of t}
dt 2
d
Also = {When  is a function of }
d
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[8] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Important points:
• Unit : rad/s2 • Dimensions : [M0L0T-2]
• Angular acceleration is an axial vector quantity. It's direction is the direction of change in angular
velocity.
• If  = 0, then circular motion is said to be uniform.
• If  ≠ 0, then circular motion is said to be non-uniform.
• If direction of angular velocity and angular acceleration is same then magnitude of angular velocity
increases.
• If direction of angular velocity and angular acceleration is opposite then magnitude of angular
velocity decreases.
dθ d𝜔
dt dt
  
Differentiate w.r.t. time Differentiate w.r.t. time

‫ ׬‬α dt
 
Integrate w.r.t. time

∫ω dt
 
Integrate w.r.t. time

Illustration 12:
t3 t2
A particle is moving on a circular path of radius 5m and its time dependent angular position is,  = −
3 2
radian. Find
(i) Angular displacement in first 3s (ii) Average angular velocity in first 3s
(iii) Angular velocity at t = 2s (iv) Angular acceleration at t = 2s
Solution:
(i) at t = 0s,  = 0 d 3t 2 2t
(iii) inst = = − = (t 2 − t)
at t = 3s dt 3 2
(3)3 (3)2 9 at t = 2, inst = (2)2 − 2 = 2rad/sec
= − = 9 – = 4.5 radian.
3 2 2
d d2
Angular displacement in first 3s = 4.5 radian. (iv) inst = = = 2t – 1
dt dt 2
4.5rad 3 at t = 2,  = 2(2)–1 = 3 rad/sec2
(ii) av = = rad / s
3s 2
Illustration 13:
A disc starts from rest and gains an angular acceleration given by  = 3t – t2 (where t is in seconds) upon
the application of a torque. Calculate its (i) angular velocity after 2 sec and (ii) angular displacement after
2 sec.

TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [9]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Solution:
d d
(i) = = 3t – t2 (ii) =
dt dt
 
t t
 3t 2 t 3 
  d =  (3t − t 2 )dt   d =   −  dt
0 0 0 0
2 3
2
3t t3  t3 t 4 
2
= − = − 
2 3
 2 12  0
10
 at t =2 s, = rad/s  8 16  8
3   =  −  = rad
 2 12  3
Equation of circular motion
When angular acceleration is constant
d
We have, =  [where  = constant angular acceleration]
dt
or d =  dt
integrating, both sides we get
 t
 0
d =   dt or  – 0 =  t
0

  = 0 +  t ...(i)
Where 0 = initial angular velocity at time t = 0
 = Final angular velocity at time t = t
d
Again we can write  = .
dt
d
From equation (i) we get, = 0 + t or d = (0 + t) dt
dt
 t
On integrating,  0
d =  (0 + t )dt
0

1
  = 0 t + t2 ...(ii)
2
here. 0 = initial angular velocity at time t = 0
 = Final angular displacement at time t
d d d
Again =  or . =.
dt d dt
d d
=  =   d =  d.
dt d
 
On integrating,  0
d =  d
0

 2 = 02 + 2  ...(iii)
Equation (i), (ii) and (iii) can be used to find different parameters of a particle moving with constant
angular acceleration.

TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 10 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Translatory / Linear Motion Rotational Motion
Initial velocity (u) Initial angular velocity (0)
Final velocity (v) Final angular velocity ()
Displacement (s) Angular displacement ()
Acceleration (a) Angular Acceleration ()
If a = constant, then If  = constant, then
v = u + at  = 0 + t
1 1
s = ut + at2  = 0t + t2
2 2
v2 = u2 + 2as  = 0 + 2
2 2

a 
sn = u +
th (2n–1) n = 0 + (2n –1)
2 th
2
u+v    +
s=  t  = 0 t
 2   2 
Illustration 14:
A fan is rotating with angular velocity 100 rev/sec. Then it is switched off. It takes 5 minutes to stop. (a)
Find the total number of revolutions made before it stops. (Assume uniform angular retardation) (b) Find
the value of angular retardation (c) Find the average angular velocity during this interval.
Solution:
 + 0   100 + 0 
(a) = t =    5 60 = 15000 revolutions
 2   2 
1 1
(b)  = 0 + t  0 = 100 –  (5 × 60)   = – rev/sec2  Angular retardation = rev/sec2
3 3
Total Angle of Rotation 15000
(c) av = = = 50 rev. / sec.
Total timetaken 5  60
Illustration 15:
A particle performs circular motion with initial angular velocity 10 rad/s and constant angular acceleration
of 2 rad/s2. Then find number of rotations in 5th sec.
Solution:
Given, 0 = 10 rad/s,  = 2rad/s2
 2
n = 0 + (2n –1) = 10 + (2  5 − 1) = 19 rad
2 2
th

 19
Number of rotations = N = = 3
2 2
Illustration 16:
A grind stone starts from rest and has a constant-angular acceleration of 4.0 rad/sec2. The angular
displacement and angular velocity, after 4 sec. will respectively be -
Solution:
Angular displacement after 4 sec is,
1 1 1
 = 0t + t2 = t2 = × 4 × 42 = 32 rad
2 2 2
Angular velocity after 4 sec.
 = 0 + t = 0 + 4 × 4 = 16 rad/sec
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [ 11 ]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Illustration 17:
The figure shows the angular velocity versus time graph of a
flywheel. The angle, in radians through which the flywheel turns 30
during 25s is
Solution:
(rad s–1)
d
=   d =  dt {Area under the  − t curve gives  } 0 5 Time (s) 20 25
dt

  = 15 + 25  30   = 600 rad
2
Acceleration in Circular Motion
Tangential, Radial and Relation Between Linear and angular Acceleration
Velocity v =  r
Differentiate both the side w.r.t time
dv d( r) d() d(r)
= =  r + 
dt dt dt dt
a =  r +  v
aT =  r is tangential acceleration ; acp =  v is centripetal acceleration
a = aT + ac ( aT and a c are the two component of net linear acceleration)
a T ⊥ ac

|a|= a2T + ac2

Tangential Acceleration:
Its magnitude is the rate of change of speed of the particle.
d| v |
aT = = Rate of change of speed
dt
As aT is along the direction of motion (in the direction of v or opposite to v ) so aT is responsible for
change in speed of the particle.
• If a particle is moving on a circular path with constant speed then tangential acceleration(a T) is
zero.
• In vector form aT =  r
• Magnitude of tangential acceleration in case of circular motion :
• aT =  r sin 90° = r (  is axial, r is radial so that  ⊥ r )
Centripetal Acceleration: 
The velocity of the particle changes while moving on the curved path, this
change in velocity is brought by a force known as centripetal force and the v
acceleration so produced in the body is known as centripetal acceleration.
aC =  v r

aC =  ( r) { v =  r }
• Centripetal acceleration is always perpendicular to the velocity at each point , therefore it is
responsible for change in direction of velocity.
v2
• In terms of magnitude ac = v = 2r =
r
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 12 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Net acceleration: 𝑎Ԧ𝑇
a = a T + aC aሬԦ
θ
2
 v2  𝑎Ԧ𝑐
a = a + ac2
T
2
= (r) +  
2

 r 
ac
tan  = { is the angle made by a with aT }
aT
Important Points:
(i) Differentiation of speed gives tangential acceleration.
(ii) Differentiation of velocity (v) gives total acceleration.
dv d| v | dv
(iii) & are not same physical quantity. is the magnitude of rate of change of velocity, i.e.
dt dt dt
d| v |
magnitude of total acceleration and is a rate of change of speed, i.e. tangential acceleration.
dt
Illustration 18:
A particle travels in a circle of radius 20 cm at a speed that uniformly increases. If the speed changes from
5.0 m/s to 6.0 m/s in 2.0 s, find the angular acceleration.
Solution:
Since speed increases uniformly, average tangential acceleration is equal to instantaneous tangential
acceleration.
 This instantaneous tangential acceleration is given by
dv v 2 – v 1 6.0–5.0
aT = = = m / s2 = 0.5 m / s2
dt t 2 – t 1 2.0

aT 0.5m / s2
The angular acceleration is  = = = 2.5rad / s2
r 20cm
Illustration 19:
A body of mass 2kg lying on a smooth surface is attached to a string 3m long and then whirled round in a
horizontal circle making 60 revolutions per minute. The centripetal acceleration will be -
Solution:
Given that the mass of the particle, m = 2kg, radius of circle = 3m
60  2
Angular velocity = 60rev./minute = rad/sec. = 2 rad/sec.
60
Because the angle described during 1 revolution is 2 radian.
The linear velocity v = r = 2 × 3 m/s = 6 m/s
Now ac = 2R = (2)2 × 3 = 122
v2 (6)2
The centripetal acceleration = = m/s2 = 118.4m/s2
r 3

TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [ 13 ]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Illustration 20:
A particle is revolving in a circular path of radius 500 m at a speed 30 ms –1. It is 30 ms–1
increasing its speed at the rate of 2ms–2. What is its acceleration?
Solution:
O 500 m
Given, Radius (r) = 500 m, Initial speed (u) = 30 ms–1
Tangential acceleration (aT) = 2ms–2
Let the speed be v and the magnitude of centripetal acceleration be aC.
v2 302 9 −2
We know, aC = = = ms
r 500 5
92 181 −2
Total acceleration, a = a2T + aC2 = 22 + 2
 a= ms
5 25
Illustration 21:
A particle is performing circular motion of radius 1 m. Its speed is v = (2t2) m/s. What will be the magnitude
of its acceleration at t = 1s ?
Solution:
dv
Tangential acceleration = aT = = 4t, at t = 1s, aT = 4 m/s2
dt
v2 4t 4
Centripetal acceleration ac = = = 4t4, at t = 1 s, ac = 4 m/s2
r 1
Net acceleration (a) = a2T + a2c = 42 + 42 = 4 2 m/s2.

BEGINNER’S BOX-1
1. If angular velocity of a particle depends on the angle rotated  as  =  + 2, then its angular
acceleration  at  = 1 rad is :
(A) 8 rad/s2 (B) 10 rad/s2 (C) 12 rad/s2 (D) None of these
2. The second's hand of a watch has 6 cm length. The speed of its tip and magnitude of difference in
velocities of its at any two perpendicular positions will be respectively :
(A) 2 & 0 mm/s (B) 2 2  & 4.44 mm/s
(C) 2 2  & 2 mm/s (D) 2 & 2 2  mm/s
3. A particle is moving on a circular path of radius 6 m. Its linear speed is v = 2t, here t is time in second
and v is in m/s. Calculate its centripetal acceleration at t = 3 s.
4. Two particles move in concentric circles of radii r1 and r2 such that they maintain a straight line
through the centre. Find the ratio of their angular velocities.
5. If the radii of circular paths of two particles are in the ratio of 1 : 2, then in order to have same
centripetal acceleration, their speeds should be in the ratio of :
(A) 1 : 4 (B) 4 : 1 (C) 1: 2 (D) 2 :1
6. A stone tied to the end of a 80 cm long string is whirled in a horizontal circle with a constant speed.
If the stone makes 14 revolutions in 25 s, the magnitude of its acceleration is :
(A) 20 m/s2 (B) 12 m/s2 (C) 9.9 m/s2 (D) 8 m/s2
7. For a body in a circular motion with a constant angular velocity, the magnitude of the average
acceleration over a period of half a revolution is.... times the magnitude of its instantaneous
acceleration.
2 
(A) (B) (C)  (D) 2
 2
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 14 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
8. A ring rotates about z axis as shown in figure. The plane of rotation is xy. At a certain instant the
( )
acceleration of a particle P (shown in figure) on the ring is 6iˆ − 8jˆ m / s2 . Find the angular

acceleration of the ring and its angular velocity at that instant. Radius of the ring is 2 m.
y
P

x
O

Dynamics of Circular Motion

Centripetal, Centrifugal and Tangential Force
Centripetal Force:
The force that is necessary to keep an object moving in a curved path and that is ሬvԦ
directed inward towards the centre of rotation. ሬԦ
v
ሬFԦc
v2 ሬFԦc ሬԦc
• Fcp = m|acp |= m2r = m F
r ሬFԦc
• It is a vector quantity ሬԦ
v
→ mv 2 mv 2 → → ሬԦ
v
• In vector form Fc = – . r̂ = – 2 r = – m2r r̂ = – m2 r = – m ( v ×  )
r r
–ve sign indicates direction only.
→ → →
Fc = m ( v ×  )
Centrifugal Force
• The apparent force that is felt by an object moving in a curved path that acts radially away from the
center of rotation.
• Its magnitude is equal to centripetal force.
v2
• Fcf = m2r = m
r
• Its direction is radially outwards.
Note: Centripetal force and centrifugal force are really the exact same force, just in opposite directions
because they're experienced from different frames of reference.
Tangential Force
• Tangential force is the force acting on a body in a circular motion in the tangential direction of a
curved path.
• A tangential force is the follow up of a tangential acceleration which is always at right angle to the
radius which originate from the axis of rotation.
• FT = maT = mr
Steps to solve problems based on the dynamics of circular motion:
(1) The free body diagram of the particle should be drawn.
(2) Axes should be defined, preferably in the radial and tangential directions.
(3) All forces should be resolved along the chosen axes.
(4) Newton’s second law of motion should be applied in radial and tangential directions.
(5) Forces in the plane perpendicular to circular motion should also be balanced if needed
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [ 15 ]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Illustration 22:
v
A block of mass m moves with speed v against a smooth, fixed vertical circular
groove of radius r kept on smooth horizontal surface.
Find : (i) normal reaction of the floor on the block.
(ii) normal reaction of the vertical wall on the block.
Solution:
Here centripetal force is provided by normal reaction of vertical wall.
mv 2
(i) normal reaction of floor NF = mg (ii) normal reaction of vertical wall =
r
Illustration 23:
A body of mass 0.1 kg is moving on a circular path of diameter 1.0m at the rate of 10 revolutions per
31.4 seconds. The centripetal force acting on the body is -
Solution:
mv 2
F= = mr2 ; Here m = 0.10kg, r = 0.5m and
r
2n 2  3.14  10
= = = 2rad/s
t 31.4
F = 0.10 × 0.5 × (2)2 = 0.2 N
Illustration 24:
A block of mass 2kg is tied to a string of length 2m, the other end of which is fixed. The block is moved on
a smooth horizontal table with constant speed 5 m/s. Find the tension in the string.
Solution: v=5m/s
Here centripetal force is provided by tension.
T
mv2 2 52 m=2kg
T= = = 25N
r 2
Illustration 25:
A block of mass m is tied to a spring of spring constant k, natural length , and

the other end of spring fixed at O. If the block moves in a circular path on a
O
smooth horizontal surface with constant angular velocity , find tension in the m
spring k
Solution:
Assume extension in the spring is x. Here centripetal force is provided by spring
force.
m2
Centripetal force, kx = m2( + x)  x =
k − m2
km2
therefore, Tension = kx =
k − m2
Horizontal Circular Motion
Uniform Circular Motion (U.C.M.)
When a particle moves on a circular path with constant speed, then its motion is called uniform circular
motion.
In uniform circular motion a resultant non-zero force acts on the particle. The acceleration is due to the
change in direction of the velocity vector. In uniform circular motion, tangential acceleration ( aT ) is zero.
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 16 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
v2
The acceleration of the particle is towards the centre and its magnitude is . Here, v is the speed of the
r
particle and r the radius of the circle.
mv 
The direction of the resultant force F is therefore, towards the centre and its magnitude is F = = mr2
r
( as v = r)
Here,  is the angular speed of the particle. This force F is called the centripetal force. Thus, a centripetal
mv 2
force of magnitude is needed to keep the particle moving in a circle with constant speed. This force is
r
provided by some external agent such as friction, magnetic force, coulomb force, gravitational force,
tension. etc.
In this motion :
• Speed = constant
• |velocity| = constant
• Velocity ≠ constant (because its direction continuously changes)
1
• K.E. = mv2 = constant
2
•  = constant (because magnitude and direction, both are constant)
 d| v | d ( constant ) 
• a T = 0  aT = = = 0
 dt dt 
•  =0 [From a T = r ]
• |a |=|acp |= v = 2r = v 2 / r = constant
• a = acp  constant (because the direction of acp is towards the centre of circle which changes as the
particle revolves)
• Uniform circular motion is usually executed in horizontal plane.
•  
Total work done = Fnet .ds = Fcp .ds  F
 net = Fcp 

=  ( F ) ( ds ) cos90 = 0
cp
90°
Work 0
• Power = = =0
time t
or Power = Fnet  v = Fcp  v = Fcpvcos90° = 0
• Concept (For U.C.M.); Fn et = ma cp
Example:-
(i) A particle of mass 'm' is tied at one end of a string of length 'r' and it is made to revolve along a circular
path in a horizontal plane with a constant speed means a (uniform circular motion) In this condition
the required centripetal force is provided by the tension in the string.

(ii) Motion of artificial satellites around the earth is an example of uniform circular motion. The
gravitational force from the earth makes the satellites stay in the circular orbit around the earth.
(iii) The motion of electrons around its nucleus.
(iv) The tip of second's hand of a watch with circular dial shows uniform circular motion.
(v) A curve in a road, a car turning through

TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [ 17 ]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Illustration 26:
A certain string which is 1m long will break, if the load on it is more than 0.5kg. A mass of 0.05kg is attached
to one end of it and the particle is whirled round a horizontal circle by holding the free end of the string by
one hand. The greatest number of revolutions per minute possible without breaking the string will be-
Solution:
Mass of the body m = 0.05kg, Radius of circular path = 1m
The maximum tension the string can withstand
= 0.5 kg wt.= 0.5 × 9.8 N = 4.9 N
Hence the centripetal force required to produce the maximum tension in the string is 4.9N
4.9 4.9
i.e.mr2 = 4.9  2 = = = 98   = 98
mr 0.05  1
98
 2n = 98  n = = 1.576 rev/sec = 94.5 rev/min
2
Illustration 27:
A block of mass m is kept on the edge of a horizontal turn table of radius R, which is rotating with constant
angular velocity  (along with the block) about its axis. If coefficient of friction is µ, find the friction force
between block and table.
Solution:
Here centripetal force is provided by friction force.
Friction force = centripetal force = m2R
Illustration 28:
A small object placed on a rotating horizontal turn table just slips when it is placed at a distance 4 cm from
the axis of rotation. If the angular velocity of the turn-table is doubled, the object slips when its distance
from the axis of rotation is
Solution:
The object will slip if required centripetal force  force of friction
mr2  µmg or r2  µg
r2  constant
2
 r1   2 
or  = 
 r2   1 
2
4cm  2 
=   r2 = 1 cm
r2  
Banking of Roads
When vehicles go through turnings, they travel along a nearly circular arc. There must be some force which
provides the required centripetal acceleration. If the vehicles travel in a horizontal circular path, this
resultant force is also horizontal. The necessary centripetal force is being provided to the vehicles by the
following three ways :
• By friction only.
• By banking of roads only.
• By friction and banking of roads both.
In real life the necessary centripetal force is provided by friction and banking of roads both.
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 18 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Case-1; Circular turning on roads by friction only :
Suppose a car of mass m is moving with a speed v in a horizontal circular arc of radius r. In this case, the
necessary centripetal force will be provided to the car by the force of friction f acting towards centre of the
circular path
mv2
f=
r
fmax = N = mg
Therefore, for a safe turn without skidding
mv2 mv2
 fmax   mg  v  rg
r r
Case-2; Circular turning on roads by banking of roads only :
Friction is not always reliable at turns particularly when high speeds and sharp turns are involved. To
avoid dependence on friction, the roads are banked at the turn in
the sense that the outer part of the road is some what lifted N N cos 
compared to the inner part. 
mv 2 mv 2
Nsin = and Ncos  = mg N sin  r
r
v 2
h h
tan  =  v = rg tan  tan  =
rg b mg

v2 h
Note: tan = = b
rg b
Case-3; Circular turning on roads by friction and banking of road both :
 If a vehicle is moving on a circular road which is rough and banked also, then three forces may act
on the vehicle.
 Of these the first force, i.e., weight (mg) is fixed both in magnitude and direction.
 The direction of second force, i.e., normal reaction N is perpendicular to road.
 The direction of the third force, i.e., friction f can be either inwards or outwards, while its magnitude
can be varied up to a maximum limit (fmax = μN ).
 So, direction and the magnitude of friction f are so adjusted that the resultant of the three forces
mv 2
mentioned above is towards the Centre.
r
(a) If speed of the vehicle is small then friction acts outwards.
In this case, Ncos  + f sin  = mg …(i)
mv2 N N cos  + f sin 
and Nsin  − fcos  = …(ii)
R
For minimum speed f = µN  f
So by dividing equation (i) by equation (ii)
 mv 2
Ncos  + Nsin  mg N sin  + f cos θ
= r
Nsin  − Ncos  mv 2min / R
mg
 tan  −   
Therefore v min = Rg  
 1 +  tan  
If we assume  = tan , then
 tan  − tan  
v min = Rg   = Rg tan( − )
 1 + tan  tan  
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [ 19 ]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
(b) If speed of the vehicle is high then friction acts inwards.
In this case for maximum speed,
Ncos  − Nsin  = mg N N cos 

mv 2max 
and Nsin  + Ncos  =
R
 mv 2
N sin  + fcos
 tan  +    r
Which gives v max = Rg   f
 1 −  tan   mg + f sin
If we assume  = tan , then 

 tan  + tan  
v max = Rg   = Rg tan( + )
 1 − tan  tan  
Hence for successful turning on a rough banked road, velocity of vehicle must satisfy following
relation.
Rg tan( − )  v  Rg tan( + )

where  = banking angle and  = tan −1 ()

v2
Note: The expression tan  = also gives the angle of banking for an aircraft, i.e., the angle through
rg
which it should tilt while negotiating a curve, to avoid deviation from the circular path.
v2
The expression tan  = also gives the angle at which a cyclist should lean inward, when rounding
rg
a corner. In this case,  is the angle which the cyclist must make with the vertical.
Illustration 29:
An unbanked curve has a radius of 100m. The maximum speed at which a car can make a turn if the
coefficient of static friction is 0.8, is (acceleration due to gravity = 10 m/s2).
Solution:
Here centripetal force is provided by friction so,
mv 2
 mg
r
v max = µrg = 0.8  100  10 28m / s
Illustration 30:
A circular road of radius 40 m has the angle of banking equal to 37°. At what speed should a vehicle go on
this road so that the friction is not used?
Solution:
Given; Radius (r) = 40 m ; Angle of banking =  = 37°
Let the speed = v
v2
 tan  =  v = rg tan   v = 4010 tan37 = 10 3m/s
rg

TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 20 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Illustration 31:
A circular road of radius 0.5 km has a banking angle of 37°. What will be the maximum safe speed of a car
whose mass is 500 kg, and the coefficient of friction between the tyre and the road is 0.5.
Solution:
Given; Radius of the circular road (r) = 0.5 km = 500 m ; Mass of the car (m) = 500 kg
Angle of banking = 37° ; Coefficient of friction between the tyre and the road = 0.5

 3  5
 tan  +    + 0.5  4
 tan37 + 0.5  4   = 100m / s
v max = Rg   = 500  10  1 − 0.5  tan37  = 500  10   = 5000
 1 −  tan     3
 1 − 0.5    2.5 
 4  
 4 
Conical Pendulum, Rotor and Death Well
Conical Pendulum
If a small particle of mass m tied to a string is whirled along a horizontal circle, as shown in figure then the
arrangement is called conical pendulum'. In case of conical pendulum, the vertical component of tension
balances the weight while its horizontal component provides the necessary centripetal force. Thus,
The forces acting on the bob are (a) Tension T (b) weight mg
The horizontal component T sin of the tension T provides the centripetal force and the vertical component
T cos balances the weight of bob
mv 2
T sin = …(i)  L
r
T cos  = mg …(ii) T T cos 

From equations (i) and (ii) r mv 2
O
v2 T sin m r
tan = …(iii)
rg r = L sin  mg
 v = rg tan 

v g tan 
 Angular speed  = =
r r
2 r Lcos 
So, the time period of pendulum is T = = 2 = 2
 g tan  g
'Death Well' or Rotor
In case of 'death well' a person drives a motorcycle on the vertical surface of a large wooden well while in
case of a rotor a person hangs resting against the wall without any support from the bottom at a certain
angular speed of rotor. In death well, walls are at rest and person revolves while in case of rotor person is
at rest w.r.t wall and the wall rotates.
In both cases, friction balances the weight of person while reaction provides the centripetal force for
circular motion, i.e.
By the free body diagram
fr = mg …(i)
mv2
N= = mr2 …(ii)
r
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [ 21 ]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Balancing the vertical forces
fr = mg or N = mg
mv2
 = mg f
r r
N
gr
v2 = mg

gr
v min =

Illustration 32: Death well
Consider a conical pendulum having bob of mass m and h height below the ceiling, is suspended from a
ceiling through a string of length L. The bob moves in a horizontal circle of radius r.
Find: (a) The angular speed of the bob and time period in terms of g and h
(b) The tension in the string
Solution:
mv 2
(a) T sin = …(i)
r
T cos  = mg …(ii)
From equations (i) and (ii) A
 L
v2
tan = …(iii) h T T cos 
rg

If h = height of conical pendulum r B mv 2
O
OB r T sin m r
tan = = …(iv)
OA h r = L sin 
mg
from equations (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)
v2 g g g
2 = 2
= = or  = 1
r h h
(L2 − r2 )2
h
(b) The time period of revolution; T = 2
g
mg mgL
(c) From equation (ii) T = =
cos  1
(L2 − r2 )2
Illustration 33:
Two particles tied to different strings are whirled in a horizontal circle as shown in figure. The ratio of lengths
of the strings so that they complete their circular path with equal time period is :

45°
L1 30° L2

m m
(a) (b)
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 22 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Solution:
Lcos 
Since T = 2
g
 T 1 = T2  L1 cos1 = L2 cos2
L1 cos 2 cos45 2
 = = =
L2 cos 1 cos30 3
Illustration 34:
A particle describes a horizontal circle on the smooth surface of an inverted cone. The height of the plane
of the circle above the vertex is 9.8cm. The speed of the particle will be -
Solution:
The force acting on particle are
N
(i) Weight mg acting vertically downward 
(ii) Normal reaction N of the smooth surface of the cone.
Resolving N into horizontal and vertical components we obtain h mg 
mv 2
N cos = and N sin = mg
r
Nsin  mg rg
 =  tan = 2
Ncos  mv / r
2
v
r r rg −2
But tan = , = 2  v = hg = 9.8  9.8  10 = 0.98 m/s
h h v
Illustration 35:
A string breaks under a load of 50 kg. A mass of 1 kg is attached to one end of the string 10 m long and is
rotated in horizontal circle. Calculate the greatest number of revolutions that the mass can make in one
second without breaking the string.
Solution:
 = 2n, Tmax = 500 N, r = L sin
Tsin = m r
2
T  L
 T = m2 L
 Tmax = m 2max L  Tmax = m(2nmax)2 L
Tsin r
1 Tmax 1 500 50
nmax = = = revolution per second.
2 mL 2 1  10 2
mg
Non- uniform Circular Motion
When a particle moves on a circular path with variable speed, then its motion is called non-uniform circular
motion.
In this motion:
• Acceleration (a) has two components: -
a cp = responsible for change in direction only.
aT = responsible for change in speed only.
Hence due to aT
• speed = |velocity| is variable.
• Velocity ≠ constant (because its direction and magnitude continuously change).
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [ 23 ]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
1
• K.E. = mv2 (not constant)
2 𝑎Ԧ𝑇
v aሬԦ
• = (not constant) θ
r
𝑎Ԧ𝑐
•   0 and aT  0
v2
• acp = v = 2r =
r
2
 v2 
= ( r ) +  
2
• a = aT + acp a = a T2 + acp2
 r 
• F = FT + Fcp F = FT2 + Fcp2
• Work done by centripetal force is zero but work done by tangential force is not zero.
• Total work done
W = FT .s = FTs cos 0° = FTs ሬሬሬሬԦ
FT

(where s is the distance travelled by the particle)

ሬԦ
v
work FT .s
• Power = = = FT .v = FTv cos 0° = FTv 90°
time t
• Angle between velocity and acceleration is given by : ሬԦ
Fcp
acp Fcp
tan  = =
aT FT
Example :
Circular motion in vertical plane is an example of non-uniform circular motion.

Vertical Circular Motion

Suppose a particle of mass m is attached to a light inextensible string of length
L. The particle is moving in a vertical circle of radius L about a fixed-point O. It v
is imparted a velocity u in the horizontal direction at lowest point A. Let v be its Lcos θ L
velocity at point P of the circle as shown in the figure. h P
m u
A
Velocity at a point P
Then apply mechanical energy conservation between point A and P(considering potential energy zero at
point A)
Total (P E + K.E.) at A = Total (P.E. + K.E.) at P
1 1
 0+ mu2 = mgh + mv2
2 2
1 1
 mu2 = mg(L − Lcos ) + mv 2 as {h = (L – Lcos)}
2 2
[Where L is length of the string]

v= u − 2gL(1 − cos )
2


TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 24 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Tension at a point P
mv 2
At point P required centripetal force =
L O
v
T
Net force towards the centre = T – mg cos 
P
This net force provides required centripetal force. u  mgcos
A
2 mg
mv mgsin
 T – mg cos =
L
v2 m 2
 T = m [g cos + ]  T= [u – gL(2 – 3cos)]
L L C
Special Case
At point A : (Bottom point)
mv 2A
TA = + mg (Here  = 0°) D B
L
mu2 L
TA = + mg
L m
u
At point B : A

vB= u − 2gL
2

mv B2
TB =
L
mu2
TB = – 2mg (Here  = 90°)
L
At point C : (Top point)

vC = u − 4gL
2

mv 2C
TC = – mg
L
mu2
TC = – 5mg (Here  = 180°)
L
From above equation we can see, Tbottom – Ttop = TA – TC = 6 mg, this difference in tension remain same.
Illustration 36:
A 4kg balls swings in a vertical circle at the end of a cord 1m long. The maximum speed at which it can
swing if the cord can sustain maximum tension of 183.2N will be -
Solution:
mv 2
Maximum tension T = + mg (Tension will be maximum at lowest point)
r
mv 2
 = T – mg
r
4v2
or = 183.2 – 4 × 9.8  v = 6m/s
1
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [ 25 ]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Illustration 37:
The string of a pendulum is horizontal. The mass of the bob is m. Now the string is released. The tension in
the string in the lowest position is -
Solution:
The situation is shown in fig. Let v be the velocity of the bob at the lowest position. In this position the P.E.
of bob is converted into K.E. hence -
1
mgL = mv2  v2 =2gL ...(i)
2
If T be the tension in the string, T
2
mv v
then T – mg = ...(ii)
mg
From (i) & (ii) T = 3mg
Illustration 38:
A body weighing 0.4 kg is whirled in a vertical circle with a string making 2 revolutions per second. If the
radius of the circle is 1.2 m. Find the tension (a) at the top of the circle, (b) at the bottom of the circle.
Given: g = 10 m s–2 and  = 3.14.
Solution:
1
Mass, m = 0.4 kg; time period = second; radius, r = 1.2 m
2
2
Angular velocity,  = = 4 rad s–1 = 12.56 rad s–1.
1/2
mv2
(a) At the top of the circle, T =
r
(
− mg = mr2 − mg = m r2 − g )
= 0.4 (1.2 × 12.56 × 12.56 – 9.8) N = 72 N
(
(b) At the lowest point, T = m r + g = 80N
2
)
Condition for Looping the Loop
For String
What should be the minimum velocity of particle connected with string of length C
L at point A so that it just performs vertical circular motion about a fixed point.
The point mass will complete the circle only and only if tension is never zero O
(except momentarily. If at all) if tension becomes zero at any point, string will go
slack and subsequently, the only force acting on the body is gravity. Hence its L 𝜃
subsequent motion will be similar to that of a projectile. m P
2
mv A u
Tension at point P, T – mg cos =
L
From equation, it is evident that tension decreases with increase in  because cos  is a decreasing function
and v decreases with height. Hence tension is minimum at the top most point. i.e. Tmin = Ttopmost.
However if tension is momentarily zero at highest point the body would still be able to complete the circle.
Hence condition for completing the circle (or looping the loop) is : -

TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 26 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Tmin  0 or Ttop  0.
mv 2top
Ttop + mg =
L
For looping the loop, Ttop  0
mv 2top
 mg  vtop  gL ...(i)
L
If speed at the lowest point is u, then from conservation of mechanical energy between lowest point and
top most point.
1 1
mu2 = m v 2top + mg . 2L ...(ii)
2 2
using equation (i) and (ii) we get u  5gL
i.e., for looping the loop, velocity at lowest point must be  5gL .
If velocity at lowest point is just enough for looping the loop, value of various quantities at point A, B, C and
D are :
C

TC = 0

TD = 3mg TB = 3mg
D B
L
TA = 6mg
m
u
A
A B,D C P(general point)
1 Velocity 5gL 3gL gL gL(3 + 2cos )
Here  is angle
2 Tension 6mg 3mg 0 3mg(1 + cos)
made by radius
3 Potential Energy 0 mgL 2mgL mgL(1 – cos)
vector with
4 Radial acceleration 5g 3g g g(3 + 2cos) vertical
5 Tangential acceleration 0 g 0 gsin
Massless Rod
In case of light rod tension at top most point can never be zero so velocity will become zero.
 For completing the loop v L  4gR
Illustration 39:
A stone weighing 1kg is whirled in a vertical circle at the end of a rope of length 0.5m. Find the velocity of
a stone and tension in string (a) at lowest position (b) midway when the string is horizontal (c) at topmost
position to just complete the circle.
Solution:
Lower most point; v L = 5gr = 5 9.8  0.5 = 4.95 m/s
TL = 6mg = 6 1 9.8 = 58.8N
When string is horizontal; v M = 3gr = 3 9.8  0.5 = 3.83 m/s
TM = 3mg = 3 1 9.8 = 29.4N
Top most point; v T = gr = 9.8  0.5 = 2.21 m/s
TT = 0N
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [ 27 ]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Illustration 40:
Two-point masses, each m is connected to a light rod of length 2 and it is free to rotate in
vertical plane as shown. Calculate the minimum horizontal velocity given to lower mass so that m
it completes the circular motion in vertical plane.
Solution: m
Here tension in the rod at the top most point of circle can be zero or negative for completing the loop. So,
velocity at the top most point is zero.
From energy conservation
2
1 1 v
mv 2 + m   = mg(2 ) + mg(4 ) + 0 m
2 2 2
3g m v
 v=4
5
Illustration 41:
A block is released from the top of a smooth vertical track, which ends in a circle
of radius r as shown.
h B
(i) Find the minimum value of h so that the block completes the circle.
r
(ii) If h = 3r, find normal reaction when the block is at the points A and B.
Solution: A
(i) For completing the circle, velocity at lowest point of circle (say A) is
5gr
from energy conservation
1
( ) 5r
2
mgh= m 5gr  h =
2 2
(ii) h = 3r
From energy conservation, velocity at point A and B are :
1
mg  3r = mv 2A  v A = 6gr
2
1
mg  3r = mv 2B + mg  2r  v B = 2gr
2
Therefore, normal reaction at A and B is: -
mv 2A
N A – mg =  N A = 7mg
r
mv 2B
NB + mg =  NB = mg
r
Condition of Oscillations and Leaving Circular path
When a particle is whirled in a vertical circle then three cases are possible
Case I : Particle oscillates in lower half circle when u  2gL
Case II : Particle moves to upper half circle but not able to complete loop when
2gL  u  5gL
Case III : Particle completes loop when u  5gL

TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 28 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Condition of Oscillation 0 < u  2gL( )
The particle will oscillate if velocity of the particle becomes zero but tension
in the string is not zero. O B v v=0
T T0
(In lower half circle (A to B)) L  P
2
mv u  mgcos
Here, T – mgcos = A
A
L mgsin mg

mv 2A
T= + mgcos
L
In the lower part of circle, when velocity become zero and tension is non-zero, means when v = 0, but T  0
So, to make the particle oscillate in lower half cycle, maximum possible velocity at A can be. given by
1
mv 2A + 0 = mgL + 0 (by COME between A and B)
2
vA = 2gL ...(i)
Thus, for 0 < u  2gL , particle oscillates in lower half of the circle (00 <   90°)
Condition of Leaving the Circle : ( 2gL < u < 5gL) C v
In upper half cycle (B to C)
T
mv 2  
Here, T + mg cos =
L B
 mv 2
 mg
T=  – mg cos   ...(ii)
 L 

In this part of circle tension force can be zero without having zero velocity mean when T = 0, v  0
form equation (ii) it is clear that tension decreases if velocity decreases. So, to complete the loop, tension
force should not be zero, in between B to C. Tension will be minimum at C i.e., T c  0 is the required
condition.
mv 2c
At Top Tc + mg =
L vc
C
if Tc = 0
mg
mv 2c
Then mg = Tc
L
vc2 = gL  vc = gL
By COME (Between A and C)
1 2 1
mv A + 0 = mv 2c + mg(2L)
2 2
vA2 = vc2 + 4gL  vA2 = 5gL  v A = 5gL
Therefore, if 2gL < u < 5gL , the particle leaves the circle.
Note: After leaving the circle, the particle will follow a parabolic path.
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [ 29 ]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
Illustration 42:
Find minimum speed at A so that the ball can reach at point B as shown in
figure. Also discuss the motion of particle when T = 0, v = 0 simultaneously at C B
 = 90°. 
Solution:
From energy conservation , A
1 2
mv A + 0 = 0 + mgL (for minimum speed at A, vB = 0) O
2 B v
vmin = 2gL T
L  P
at the position B, v = 0 and T = 0  mgcos
mv 2B A
T − mg cos  = …(i) mg
L
(putting vB = 0 and  = 90°, in equation ...(ii)
ball will return back, motion is oscillatory
Illustration 43:
A block is released from the top of a smooth vertical track, which ends in a
circle of radius r as shown. If h = 2r, find the velocity of the block when it loses
h B
the contact with the track.
r
Solution:
H = 2r A
It loses contact with the track when normal reaction is zero
mv2
= mgcos  …(i)
r
From energy conservation

1
mgh = mgr (1+cos  )+ mv 2 …(ii)
2 r
From (i) and (ii)
2g(h – r) 2gr
v= =
3 3
Illustration 44:
A particle in projected with velocity 3gL at point A (lowest point of the circle) in the vertical plane. Find
the maximum height about horizontal level of point A if the string slacks at the point B as shown.
Solution:
As tension at B ; T = 0
mv 2B B
 mg cos  =
L
 v B = gLcos  ...(1) O
Now by equation of energy between A and B.
L
1 1
0 + m  3gL = mv 2B + mgL(1 + cos )
2 2 A
Put vB = gLcos
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 30 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital

 Circular Motion
TG: @Chalnaayaaar
1
 cos  =
3
 Height attended by particle after the point B where the string slacks is ;
v 2B sin2  gLcos (1– cos2 ) 4L
h' = = =
2g 2g 27
 Maximum height about point A is given by ;
Hmax = L + Lcos  + h'
L 4L 40L
=L+ + =
3 27 27

BEGINNER’S BOX-2
1. A particle of mass m1 is fastened to one end of a string and another one of mass m2 to the middle
point; the other end of the string being fastened to a fixed point on a smooth horizontal table. The
particles are then projected, so that the two portions of the string are always in the same straight
line and describe horizontal circles. Find the ratio of the tensions in the two parts of the string.
2. A road is 8 m wide. Its average radius of curvature is 40 m. The outer edge is above the lower edge
by a distance of 1.28 m. Find the velocity of vehicle for which the road is most suited ? (g = 10 m/s2)
3. A stone of mass 1 kg tied to a light string of length  = 10 m is whirling in a circular path in the
vertical plane. If the ratio of the maximum to minimum tensions in the string is 3, find the speeds of
the stone at the lowest and highest points.
A
4. Calculate the following for the situation shown :- D
vC = 7gR
(a) Speed at D H
R C
(b) Normal reaction at D B

(c) Height H
5. A car is moving along a hilly road as shown (side view). The coefficient of static friction between the
tyres and the pavement is constant and the car maintains a steady speed. If at one of the points
shown the driver applies brakes as hard as possible without making the tyres slip, the magnitude of
the frictional force immediately after the brakes are applied will be maximum if the car was at :-
(A) point A
(B) point B C
(C) point C A
(D) friction force same for positions A, B and C B
6. A stone weighing 0.5 kg tied to a rope of length 0.5 m revolves along a circular path in a vertical
plane. The tension of the rope at the bottom point of the circle is 45 newton. To what height will the
stone rise if the rope breaks at the moment when the velocity is directed upwards? (g=10 m/s2)

TG: @Chalnaayaaar

 Digital www.allendigital.in [ 31 ]

 NEET : Physics
TG: @Chalnaayaaar

BEGINNER’S BOX ANSWERS KEY

BEGINNER'S BOX-1
1. (C) 2. (D) 3. 6 m/s2 towards the centre.
4. 1:1 5. (C) 6. (C)

7. (A) 8. −3kˆ rad/s2 , −2kˆ rad/s

BEGINNER'S BOX-2
2m1
1. 2. 8 m/s 3. vlowest = 20 2 m/s ; vhighest = 20 m/s
m2 + 2m1

9
4. (a) 5gR (b) 4mg (c) R
2
5. (B) 6. 1.5 m

TG: @Chalnaayaaar

[ 32 ] www.allendigital.in  Digital