CIRCULAR MOTION

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
At the end of this chapter the students will be able to:
1. Describe angular motion.
2. Define angular displacement, angular velocity and angular acceleration.
3. Define radian and convert an angle from radian measure to degree and vice versa.
4. Use the equation S = rθ and v = rω.
5. Describe qualitatively motion in a curved path due to a perpendicular force and understand the
centripetal acceleration in case of uniform motion in a circle.
6. Derive the equation ac = rω2 = v2/r and Fc = mω2 r = mv2/r.
7. Understand and describe moment of inertia of a body.
8. Understand the concept of angular momentum.
9. Describe examples of conservation of angular momentum.
10. Understand and express rotational kinetic energy of a disc and a hoop on an inclined plane.
11. Describe the motion of artificial satellites.
12. Understand that the objects in satellites appear to be weightless.
13. Understand that how and why artificial gravity is produced.
14. Calculate the radius of geo-stationary orbits and orbital velocity of satellites.
15. Describe Newton’s and Einstein’s views of gravitation.

INTRODUCTION:
We have studied velocity, acceleration and the laws of motion, mostly as they are involved in
rectilinear motion. However, many objects move in circular paths and their direction is continually
changing. Since velocity is a vector quantity, this change of direction means that their velocities are not
constant. A stone whirled around by a string, a car turning around a corner and satellites in orbits around
the Earth are all examples of this kind of motion.
CIRCULAR MOTION:
“The angular motion of body about axis of rotation is called circular motion”.
Following are the examples of circular motion. Motion of the earth around the sun is nearly in
circular orbit and hence it is circular motion. Motion of the moon around the earth is nearly in circular
path and hence it is an example of circular motion.
ANGULAR DISPLACEMENT:
“The displacement of a body while moving in a circular path is known as angular
displacement”.
(OR)
“Angular displacement is defined as angle formed by circulating object during a particular
time interval”.
195
196 Physics Intermediate Part-I

Symbol:
Angular displacement is represented by θ.
Unit:
Angular displacement is measured in degree, radian, or revolution.
Nature:
For small values of the angle ∆θ, angular displacement is a vector quantity. Its direction can be
determine by “Right Hand Rule”.
Right Hand Rule:
y
Grasp the axis of rotation in right hand with the
fingers curling in the direction of rotation then the thumb
will be in the direction of angular displacement as shown P′
in figure. r ∆θ P
R.H.R θ r x
Sign: O
Angular displacement is assigned a positive sign
when the rotation is anti-clock wise while negative sign
when rotation is clockwise.
Relation between Linear and Angular Displacement (S = rθ θ):
Suppose a body moves in the circle of radius ‘r’ from point C to point D through an arc length S
such that it subtends an angle θ as shown in figure.
Arc length D
θ = (rad)
Radius of circle r S

S θ C
θ = (rad) O r
r
S = rθ
Where θ is in radian.
Relation between Radian and Degree:
As S = rθ …… (1)
For one revolution = S = 2πr
and θ = 360º
So eq. (1) becomes
2πr radian = r360º
r360º
1 radian =
2πr
360º
1 radian = = 57.3º
2 × 3.14
1 radian = 57.3º
1
Also 1º = 57.3 = 0.01745 rad

1º = 0.01745 rad
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 197
ANGULAR VELOCITY:
“Rate of change of angular displacement is called angular velocity”.
Symbol:
Angular velocity is represented by ‘ω’.
Mathematical Form:
Suppose the angular displacement of a revolving body changes by an amount ∆θ in time ∆t, then
angular velocity is given by
∆θ
ω =
∆t
Nature:
Angular velocity is a vector quantity and its direction is along the direction of angular
displacement and can be determined by R.H.R (Right Hand Rule).
Unit:
Its unit is (deg s−1) or (rev s−1) or (rad s−1).
Average Angular Velocity:
The ratio of total change in angular displacement to total time interval is called average angular
velocity.
∆θ ωi + ωf
ωav = = 2
∆t
Instantaneous Angular Velocity:
If the angular displacement of a body changes for very small interval of time such that its time
approaches to zero then this velocity is known as instantaneous angular velocity i.e.,
∆θ
ωinst = Lim
∆t → 0 ∆t

ANGULAR ACCELERATION:
Rate of change of angular velocity is called angular acceleration.
Symbol:
It is represented by ‘α’.
Mathematical Form:
∆ω ωf − ωi
α = or α =
∆t tf − ti
Nature:
It is a vector quantity and its direction is along direction of increasing angular velocity.
Unit:
SI unit of angular acceleration is rad-s−2. Also other units are rev-s−2 or degree-s−2.
198 Physics Intermediate Part-I

Average Angular Acceleration:

The ratio of total change in angular velocity to the total time ∆t is called average angular
acceleration.
∆ω
αav =
∆t
Instantaneous Angular Acceleration:
If the angular velocity of body changes for such a small interval of time that this time approaches
zero then this acceleration is known as instantaneous angular acceleration.
∆ω
αins = Lim  
∆t → 0  ∆t 

RELATION BETWEEN ANGULAR AND LINEAR VELOCITIES:

ω:
Show that v = rω
Consider the motion of point along a circular path of a radius r from P1 to P2 through a distance
∆S. Its angular displacement changes by an amount ∆θ. From relation between linear and angular
displacement is given by
S = rθ …… (1)
If S = ∆S and θ = ∆θ then In vector form:
→ → →
∆S = r ∆θ …… (2) v = ω × r

Dividing both sides of above equation by ∆t

∆S r ∆θ
=
∆t ∆t
z
For a very short interval of time
∆S r ∆θ ω
Lim = Lim   …… (3)
∆t → 0 ∆t ∆t → 0  ∆t 

∆S O
As Lim = v θ
∆t → 0 ∆t y
∆θ

r
∆θ x P1 ∆S P2
Lim = ω
∆t → 0 ∆t

So eq. (3) becomes

v = rω
In vector form:
→ → →
v = ω× r
Relation between Linear and Angular Acceleration:
Consider a body moving in a circle of radius ‘r’ and its angular velocity changes by ‘∆ω’ and
linear velocity changes by ‘∆v’ in time ‘∆t’. Then according to relation between linear and angular
velocity.
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 199

v = rω …… (1)
For v = ∆v and ω = ∆ω eq. (1) between S.I unit of angular displacement,
angular velocity and angular
∆v = r ∆ω …… (2) acceleration are rad, rad s
−1
and
−2
Dividing eq. (2) by ∆t: rad s respectively.

∆v ∆ω
= r …… (3)
∆t ∆t
If the change in velocity is for very short interval of time then
∆v ∆ω
Lim   = Lim r   …… (4)
∆t → 0  ∆t  ∆t → 0  ∆t 
∆v
As Lim = a
∆t → 0 ∆t
∆ω
and Lim = α
∆t → 0 ∆t
So eq. (4) becomes
a = rα
In vector from: You may feel scared at the top of
ro lle r co a ste r rid e in th e
→ → → amusement parks but you never
a = α × r fall down even when you are
upside down. Why?
Significance of Angular Variables:
All the points that are at different distances from axis of
rotation do not have same speed or acceleration. But all points on a B A
rigid body rotating about a fix axis do have same angular displacement,
angular speed and angular acceleration at any instant. Thus using
θ
angular variables, motion of entire body can be described in more r
simple way. A B
Equations of Angular Motion: s = rθ
As the wheel turns through an
1st Equation of Motion: angle θ, it lays out a tangential
distance S = rθ.
vf = vi + at (Linear Motion)
ωf = ωi + αt (Angular Motion)
nd
2 Equation of Motion:
1
S = vit + 2 at2 (Linear Motion)

1
θ = ωit + 2 αt2 (Angular Motion)

3rd Equation of Motion: ∆v

2 2
2aS = vf – vi (Linear Motion)
Direction of motion changes
2 2 continuously in circular motion.
2αθ = ωf – ωi (Angular Motion)
200 Physics Intermediate Part-I

CENTRIPETAL FORCE:
“The force that bends the straight path motion into circular path motion is called centripetal
force”.
(OR)
“The force that keeps a body to move in a circular path is called centripetal force”.
Mathematical Form:
mv2 In a vertical loop tension is
Fc =
r maximum at the bottom and
minimum at top of loop. i.e.,
Examples of Centripetal Force: Ttop − Tbottom = 6 mg

• All the satellites revolve around the planets by centripetal force.

• Motion of electrons around the nucleus.
Centripetal Acceleration:
Acceleration produced because of centripetal force is called centripetal acceleration.
Formula:
v2
ac = r or ac = rω2

Derivation:
Suppose a body of mass ‘m’ moves from point A to point B with constant speed v in a circular
path. Since the body is moving in circle, so the direction of velocity changes at every instant. So, the
body has an acceleration ‘a’ which can be written as.
∆v
a = …… (1)
∆t
Suppose a body covers linear distance ‘S’ through arc length AB in time ∆t so,
S = v ∆t D
v2
S
∆t = v
O B
So, eq. (1) becomes: S
r
v1
∆v A
a = S
(a)
v
v
a = ∆v S …… (2)

Let us now draw a triangle PQR such that PQ is parallel and equal to v1 and PR is parallel and
equal to v2. As the radius of a circle is perpendicular to its tangent, so OA is perpendicular to v1 and OB
is perpendicular to v2. Therefore, angle AOB equals the angle QPR between v1 and v2.
Now from ∆OBA, we have R
∆v
Q
  v2
|OA| = |OB| = r (Radii of same circle) v1
 
and |PR| = |PQ| = v1 = v2 = v P
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 201
Because magnitude of velocity is same. As ∆OAB and ∆PQR are isosceles triangle. So these two
triangles can be compared i.e.,
|QR| ∝ |AB|
∆v ∝ S
∆v = kS …… (3)
Also |PQ| ∝ |OA|
v = kr …… (4)
Banked tracks are needed for
Dividing eq. (3) by (4) turns that are taken so quickly
that friction alone cannot provide
∆v kS S energy for centripetal force.
v = =
kr r
S
∆v = rv …… (5)
Workdone by centripetal force is
Put value of ∆v in eq. (2) equal to zero.

S  v
ac =  v . S
r 
v2
ac = r …… (6)

where a is the instantaneous acceleration. As this acceleration is caused

by the centripetal force, it is called the centripetal acceleration denoted
by ac. This acceleration is directed along the radius towards the centre
of the circle.
ac = Centripetal acceleration
nd
By 2 law of motion:
Fc = mac …… (7)
2
v
Put ac = r in eq. (7):

mv2
Fc = r

Centripetal Force in terms of angular velocity: Curved flight at high speed

requires a large centripetal force
As v = rω that makes the stunt dangerous
even if the air planes are not so
mr2ω2 close.
Fc = r

So, Fc = mrω2

MOMENT OF INERTIA:
Physical Definition:
Property of objects due to which they oppose any change in the state of rest or uniform
angular motion.
Symbol:
Moment of inertia is represented by ‘I’.
202 Physics Intermediate Part-I

Mathematical Definition:
“The product of mass and square of distance from the axis of rotation is called moment of
inertia”.
Mathematical Form:
Let a body of mass ‘m’ revolves at a distance ‘r’ from the axis of rotation then moment of inertia
is given by
I = mr2
Explanation:
Consider a body of mass m is attached to a massless rod as shown in figure. A frictionless
bearing rotates the rod about point ‘O’ in a circle of radius r. Suppose force ‘F’ rotates the m, from 2nd
law of motion.
F = mat …… (1)
The tangential acceleration in mass ‘m’ in term of angular r m
acceleration.
θ F
at = rα O
So, eq. (1) becomes
F = mrα
Multiplying both sides by r Fig. The force F causes a torque
2 about the axis O and gives the
rF = mr α …… (2) mass m an angular acceleration
As τ = rF about the pivot point.

and I = mr2
So eq. (2) becomes:
τ = Iα
which is Newton’s 2nd law in angular dynamics.
Comparison:
F = ma
τ = Iα
Two cylinders of equal mass. The
‘F’ is equivalent to ‘τ’. one with the larger diameter has
the greater rotational inertia.
‘a’ is equivalent to ‘α.
‘m’ is equivalent to ‘I’.
Moment of Inertia Due to a Rigid Body:
Consider a rigid body is made up of masses
m1, m2, m3, ……, mn situated at distances r1, r2, r3,
……, rn from axis of rotation.
Now rigid body rotates through an angle θ
in anti-clockwise direction.
Torque acting on mass m1, is
τ1 = I1α1
τ1 = m1r21α1
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 203
For mass m2:
τ2 = m2r22α2
M Moments of inertia of various
bodies about AA′.
2
τn = mnrnαn
(a) A
The total torque can be obtained by adding all the torques due to
the individual pieces of masses m1, m2, ……, mn. L
A′
Thin Rod
τTotal = τ1 + τ2 + τ3 + …… + τn 1 2
l = − mL
2 2 2 12
= m1r1α1 + m2r2α2 + …… + mnrnαn
A
Since for rigid body all masses have same angular acceleration.
r
α1 = α2 = α3 …… αn = α (b)

Therefore, A′
Thin ring or Hoop
2 2 2 2
τTotal = m1r1α + m2r2α + …… + mnrnα l = mr

2 2 2
τTotal = (m1r1 + m2r1 + …… + mnrn) α …… (1) A
n r
2 2 2 2 2
As m1r1 + m2r2 + m3r3 + …… + mnrn = ∑ miri (c)
i=1 A′
Solid disc or cylinder
So eq. (1) becomes 1 2
I= mr
n 2
2
Total torque = ∑ miri α
i=1 A
n
2
But I = ∑ miri 2r
i=1 (d)

Therefore, A′
Sphere
Total torque = Iα 2
I = − mr
2
5

Which is total torque of an irregular rigid body in terms of moment of inertia I and angular
acceleration α.
ANGULAR MOMENTUM:
Physical Definition:
“The quantity of angular motion in a body is called angular momentum”.
(OR)
“A body is said to possess an angular momentum if its angular position changes with respect
to a reference axis”.
Mathematical Definition:
“The cross product of moment arm and linear momentum is called angular momentum”.
204 Physics Intermediate Part-I

• It is represented by ‘L’.
• It unit is kgm2s−1 or J s.
• Its dimensions are [ML2T−1] L
L
• Its direction can be find out by Right Hand Rule.
• It is a vector quantity.
Mathematical Form:
Angular momentum of a body of mass ‘m’, revolving with
(a) (b)
velocity ‘v’ at a distance ‘r’ from axis of rotation is The sphere in (a) is rotating in the
→ → → sense given by the gold arrow. Its
L = r × p angular velocity and angular
momentum are taken to be upward
→ along the rotational axis, as shown
L = rp sin θ n^ = mrv sin θ by the right-hand rule in (b).

Direction of angular momentum is along direction of angular velocity.

Show that L = Iω:
Let us calculate the angular momentum of a body of mass ‘m’ revolving at distance ‘r’ from axis
of rotation. Then its angular momentum is
→ → →
L = r × p …… (1)
→ → →
Since, p = px + py
So, eq. (1) becomes:
→ → → →
L = r × (px + py ) p
py = p sin θ
→ → → → →
L = r × px + r × py θ
0 r m px = p cos θ
→
L = r px sin (0) n^ + r py sin 90º n^
→
|L| = 0 + |r py sin 90º n^|
L = r py
L = rp sin θ (py = p sin θ)
For θ = 90º
L = rp
L = rmv (∴ p = mv)

L = rm (rω) (∴ v = rω)
L = mr2ω
As I = mr2

L = Iω
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 205
Angular Momentum of a Symmetric Rigid Body:
Consider a symmetric rigid body like disc revolves with angular velocity ‘ω’ in anti-clockwise
direction. The angular momentum of its mass is:
 n 2 
L =  ∑ (miri ω)
i = 1 
 n
2
or L = Iω ∴ I = ∑ miri 
 i=1 
Types of Angular Momentum: A′

(i) Spin Angular Momentum:

If a body rotates such that its axis of rotation is with in the
rotating body then its momentum is considered to be spin angular
momentum.
Examples:
Spin angular momentum is the angular momentum of spinning
body. A boy is spinning such that his axis of rotation lies within the
body of boy.
A
(ii) Orbital Angular Momentum: (a)
If a body rotates such that its axis of rotation is outside the body
then its momentum is said to be orbital angular momentum. It is
associated with motion of body along a circular path. v
Examples:
Orbital motion of electrons around nucleus.
Note: (i) Formation of days and nights is due to spin angular r
momentum of earth about its own axis. O
(ii) Formation of years is due to orbital angular momentum of (b)
earth around sun.
LAW OF CONSERVATION OF ANGULAR MOMENTUM:
Statement:
“If no external torque act on a system then the total angular
momentum of the system remains constant”.
Mathematical Form:
Suppose the angular momentum of an isolated system of particle
changes from “L1 to L2”. Then according to law of conservation of
angular momentum.
L1 = L2 = L = Constant
I1ω1 = I2ω2 = Iω = Constant
Iω = Constant
mr2ω = Constant
Constant Why does the coasting rotating
ω = system slow down as water drips
mr2 into the breaker?
1 When water drips into beaker,
ω ∝ 2 mass increases, thus moment of
r inertia (I = mr2) is increased.
From the above relation it is clear that angular velocity is I1ω 1 = I2ω 2
Iω = Constant
inversely proportional to the square of radius. If the radius is large
With the increase of I, ω decreases.
angular velocity will be small and vice versa.
206 Physics Intermediate Part-I

Why does the diver changes his body position to dive in the
swimming pool?
Angular velocity ‘ω’ is inversely proportional to the square of
radius i.e.
1
ω ∝
r2
It is clear from above equation that the diver’s legs and arms are
fully extended to increase his size i.e. radius due to which its angular
momentum increases. When he jumps from the platform, he sticks his Fig. A man diving from a diving
legs and arms and so that his size i.e., radius becomes small that leads board.
him to large angular velocity and hence more somersaults.
Note: The axis of rotation of an object will not change its orientation
unless an external torque causes it to do so. The law of conservation of angular
momentum is important in many
sports, particularly in diving,
ROTATIONAL KINETIC ENERGY: gymnastics and ice-skating.
Definition:
“The energy due to the angular motion of a body is called A
rotational kinetic energy”. ω

Symbol:
ri
It is represented by K.Erot. mi

Rotational K.E of a Spinning Body:

Suppose a sphere consists of tiny pieces of masses m1, m2, m3, A′
……, mn situated at distance r1, r2, r3, ……, rn from axis of rotation.
K.E of mass m1 is given by
1
(K.E1) = 2 m1v12
ωi1 ωi2
By putting v1 = r1 ω1 we get rotational K.E
1 1 I1 I2
Q (K.E)rot = 2 m1 (r1 ω1)2 = 2 m1r12 ω12 (a)

Similarly rotational K.E. of mass m2 is

1 ωf
(K.E2)rot = 2 m2r22 ω22

And so on, (b)

1 2 2 Rotational collision - the clutch
(K.En)rot = 2 mnrnωn

Rotational K.E of whole body is given by

1 1 1
(K.E)rot = 2 m1r21 ω12 + 2 m2 r22 ω22 + …… + 2 mn rn2 ωn2
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 207
Since the body is rigid so ω1 = ω2 …… = ωn = ω

1 1 1 
So, (K.E)rot =  m1r12 + m2 r22 + …… + mn rn2 ω2
2 2 2 

 n 1 
K.Erot =  ∑ 2 mi ri2 ω2
i = 1 
n
But ∑ mi ri2 = I As the sphere rolls to the bottom
i=1
of the incline, its gravitational
potential energy is changed to
1
So, K.Erot = Iω2 kinetic energy of rotation and
2 translation.

1
K.Erot = 2 Iω2

(a) Rotational Kinetic Energy of Disc:

As we know that Ro t
at i o
trann
h s latio
1 n
K.Erot = 2 Iω2

Moment of inertia for disc is

1
I = 2 mr2

1 1 
K.Erot = 2 2 mr2 ω2
 
1
K.Erot = 4 mr2ω2

As v = rω

1
K.Erot = 4 mv2

It is required relation for kinetic energy of a disc.

For Velocity of Disc:
Suppose a disc of mass is moving down from a inclined plane of height ‘h’ such that it has
rotational kinetic energy and translational kinetic energy.
K.ET = K.Erot + K.Etrans …… (1)
1
K.Erot = 4 mv2

1
K.Etrans = 2 mv2
208 Physics Intermediate Part-I

So eq. (1) become

1 1
K.ET = mv2 + mv2
4 2
1 1
K.ET =  +  mv2
4 2
3
K.ET =  4  mv2 …… (2)
 
As the wheel rolls, it has both
Now if there is no friction then rotational and translational kinetic
energies.
K.ET at bottom = P.E at top
K.ET = P.E = mgh
So eq. (2)
3
mgh = 4 mv2

4
v2 = 3 gh

4
v = 3 gh
Result:
Thus velocity of disc is independent of its mass. And depends upon ‘g’ and ‘h’.
(b) Rotational K.E of Hoop:
We know that:
1 For sphere
K.Erot = Iω2 …… (1)
2 10
v = gh
2 7
Moment of inertia of hoop I = mr
So, vSphere > vDisc > vHoop
So eq. (1) become
1
K.Erot = mr2ω2
2
But v = r.ω
1
K.Erot = 2 mv2

This is rotational kinetic energy of hoop.

For Velocity of Hoop:
Suppose a hoop of mass ‘m’ is moving down from on inclined plane of height ‘h’ such that it has
rotational and translational kinetic energy i.e.
…… (1)
n

K.ET = K.Erot + K.Etrans

tio

s
ta

n
tio
Ro

1
= 2 mv2
la

K.Erot
ns
tra

h
1
K.Etrans = 2 mv2
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 209
So eq. (1) become
1 1
K.ET = mv2 + mv2
2 2
2
K.ET = mv …… (2)
Now if there is no friction then
K.E at bottom = P.E at top
K.E = P.E = mgh
So eq. (2) becomes
mgh = mv2
v = gh
Result:
Thus velocity of hoop is independent of its mass.
ARTIFICIAL SATELLITE:
“The objects that revolve around earth due to its gravitational field and are put into orbits by
rockets are called artificial satellites”.
Critical Velocity:
The minimum velocity required to put a satellite into its orbit is called critical velocity.
Derivation:
Consider a satellite of mass ‘m’ revolves around the earth in an
orbit of radius ‘r’. The centripetal force acting on the satellite is:
mv2 Earth
Fc = r …… (1)
R v
Since this force is provided by the weight of the body so,
h
F = w = mg …… (2)
Comparing (1) and (2):
mv2
mg = r
v2 = gr
Since for earth,
r = R (Radius of earth) -1
11 kms or
2
So, v = gR 40,000 km/hr
escape
Taking square root on both sides:
v = gR …… (3)
Now g = 9.8 ms−2
R = 6.4 × 106 m
So (3) becomes
v = (9.8)(6.4 × 106)
v = 7.9 × 103 ms−1 27,000 km/hr
30,000 km/hr
circular orbit
elliptical orbit
or v = 7.9 kms−1 Satellites Orbits

It is critical velocity of an artificial satellite.

210 Physics Intermediate Part-I

Time Period of Artificial Satellite:

The time in which satellite completes its one rotation around earth is called time period of
artificial satellite.
Derivation:
For one revolution
As g = GM/ R2
Circumference of orbit = Distance covered The value of g is maximum at poles
and minimum at equator. At the
2πR = S center of earth value of g is zero.

As Time period = T
Now using:
S = vt
2πR = vT (t = T)

2πR
T = v

2 × 3.14 × 6.4 × 106

T =
7.9 × 103
5060
T = 5060 s = 60 = 84 min. approx.
So in 84 minutes an artificial satellite complete its revolution around earth.
Some Important Points:
(i) Tangential velocity with which satellite is projected is less than critical velocity the satellite will
not revolve around earth.
(ii) For, tangential velocity = Critical velocity.

The satellite adopt circular path. Hence for circular path v = gR.
(iii) For tangential velocity > Critical velocity but less than escape velocity. The path will be elliptical.
(iv) For tangential velocity = Escape velocity. The satellite will not revolve around earth.
Note: Close orbiting satellites orbit the earth at a height of about 400 km above the earth.
Global Positioning System (GPS):
Global positioning system consists of 24 satellites.
Significance of GPS:
An air line pilot or sailor or any other person can find his The moment you switch on your
mobile phone, your location can
position with in 10m accuracy using a pocket size instrument or mobile be tracked immediately by global
phone. positioning system.
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 211
REAL AND APPARENT WEIGHT:
Real Weight Apparent Weight
(i) The force with which earth attracts an (i) Experimentally measured weight of a body
object toward its centre. by spring balance is called apparent weight.
(ii) At suitable height from the surface of earth (ii) Apparent weight can be equal to greater
value of real weight is constant. than or less than the real weight.
(iii) Real weight has particular value. (iii) Apparent weight may have zero value.
(iv) Symbol of real weight is w. (iv) Symbol of apparent weight is T.
Real weight only depends upon gravitational Apparent weight depends upon gravitational
acceleration. acceleration and acceleration due to non-
gravitational motion.
Relation between Real and Apparent Weight:
Suppose the lift is taking a weight ‘w’ in upward direction or downward direction having tension
‘T’ in its string.
Case-I: When lift is at rest or moving with uniform velocity:
When the body is at rest or moving with uniform velocity its acceleration is zero. Thus the net
force.
FNet = w − T T

ma = w−T m
As a = 0
w
So, 0 = w−T
w = T
Result:
Real weight = Apparent weight.
Case-II: When body is accelerating up:
Considering an elevator with a spring balance and mass ‘m’ moving up with acceleration ‘a’ then
Net force = Tension – Weight T

FNet = Tension – Weight m

FNet = T – w …… (1)
nd w
By 2 law of motion:
FNet = ma
Also w = mg
So eq. (1) becomes
ma = T – mg
T = ma + mg
T = ma + mg
T > w
Result:
Apparent weight is greater than real weight.
212 Physics Intermediate Part-I

Case-III: When body is accelerating down:

Consider the same accelerated system moving downward with acceleration ‘a’.
Net force = Weight – Tension T

FNet = w – T
w = ma + T w
w > T (Fn = ma)
Result:
The real weight will be greater than apparent weight.
Case-IV: When body is falling freely:
For freely falling body under gravity (a = g).
FNet = w − T
T = w − FNet
As FNet = ma
So, T = w − ma Your apparent weight differs from
your true weight when the
T = mg – ma velocity of the elevator changes
at the start and end of a ride, not
T = mg – mg (∴ a = g) during the rest of the ride when
that velocity is constant.
T = 0
Result:
The apparent weight of freely falling body equal to zero. This condition of a body is known as
weightlessness.
WEIGHTLESSNESS IN SATELLITES AND GRAVITY FREE SYSTEM:
When a satellite is falling freely in space, everything within this freely falling system will appear
to be weightless. It does not matter where the object is, whether it is falling under force of attraction of
the Earth, the Sun, or some distant star.
An Earth’s satellite is freely falling object. The statement may
be surprising at first, but it is easily seen to be correct. Consider the
behaviour of a projectile shot parallel to horizontal surface of the Earth
in the absence of air friction. If the projectile is thrown at successively
larger speed then during its free fall to the Earth, the curvature of path
decreases with increasing horizontal speeds. If object is thrown fast
enough parallel to the Earth, curvature of its path will match the
curvature of the Earth as shown in figure. In this case the space ship
will simply circle round the Earth.
The space ship is accelerating towards the centre of the Earth at all times since it circles round
the Earth. Its radial acceleration is simply g, the free fall acceleration. In fact, the space ship is
falling towards the centre of the Earth at all the times, but the curvature of the Earth prevents space
ship from hitting. Since the space ship is in free fall, all the objects within it appear to be weightless.
Thus no force is required to hold an object falling in the frame of reference of the space craft or
satellites. Such a system is called gravity free system.
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 213
ORBITAL VELOCITY:
“The velocity with which an artificial satellite revolves around v
the earth is called orbital velocity”.
Explanation: Satellite
r F
Suppose an artificial satellite of mass ‘m’ is revolving around
earth at distance r from centre of earth. For circular motion, required
Earth
centripetal force F is provided by gravitational force of attraction
between the earth and satellite. So,
Fc = FG
mv2 GmM
=
r r2
M = Mass of earth
GM
v2 =
r

GM
v = r

1
v ∝
r
In 1984, at a height of 100 km
Conclusion: above Hawaii island with a speed
−1
The speed of satellite in orbit is independent of mass of satellite. of 29000 kmh Bruce McCandless
stepped into space from a space
GM shuttle and became the first human
Any speed less than satellite of the Earth.
r , will bring the satellite tumbling
back to the Earth.
ARTIFICIAL GRAVITY:
“The gravity produced due to rotation of space ship about its own axis is called artificial
gravity”.
Significance:
Due to artificial gravity the astronauts are pressed towards the outer rim and exerts a force on the
floor of space ship in much the same way as on the earth. It enables the crew of the space ship to
function in almost normal manners as on earth.
O
Frequency Required for Artificial Gravity:
Consider a space craft of the shape as shown in figure. The
outer radius of the space ship is R and it rotates around its own axis
OO′ with angular velocity ω. Centripetal force acting on space ship is
mv2
Fc = R …… (1)
O′
As Fc = mac …… (2)
214 Physics Intermediate Part-I

Comparing (1) and (2):

2
mv  If earth stops spinning i.e., ω = 0
⇒ mac =  
 R  rad/s value of g increases
everywhere except at pole (i.e.,
As v = Rω remains same).This increase will
be maximum at equator.
(Rω)2 (R2ω2)
ac = = = Rω2 …… (3)
R R
2π
Now as ω =
T 2
R
As gh = g
1 R+h
But = f
T At H = R
g
gh = 4
So, ω = 2πf
So eq. (3) becomes
As ac = R(2πf)2
ac = 4π2f2R
1 ac
f2 =
4π2 R
Taking square root:
1 ac
f =
4π2 R
1 ac
f = R …… (4)
2π
The frequency is adjusted to such an extent that ac = g in order to produce true gravity. So eq. (4)
becomes

1 g
f =
2π R

When the space ship rotates with this frequency, the artificial gravity like earth is provided to
inhabitants of space ship.
GEOSTATIONARY SATELLITES:
“The satellites that revolve around the earth with orbital motion which is equal to the spinning
of the earth are known as Geostationary Satellites”.
(OR)
The satellite whose orbital motion is synchronized with spin motion of earth.
(i) Geostationary Orbit:
The imaginary elliptical paths around earth in which the artificial satellites revolve with orbital
period that matches the rotation of earth are called geostationary orbits.
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 215
Uses:
Geostationary satellites are used for:
Worldwide Communication
Weather observation
Navigation
Military purpose like spy.
(ii) Expression for the Radius of Geostationary Orbit:
The orbital velocity ‘v’ of a satellite at a distance ‘r’ from the centre of earth is
GM
v =
r …… (1)

The average distance travelled by a satellite in one day is

S = vt ……(2)
As S = 2πr = Circumference of geostationary satellites orbit
t = T
2πr = vT
2πr
v = T …… (3)

Comparing (1) and (3):

2πr GM
=
T r
Squaring on both sides:
2
GM 2πr
=  
r T
GM 4π2r2
=
r T2
A geostationary satellite orbits the
Earth once per day over the equator
GMT2
r3 = so it appears to be stationery. It is
4π2 used now for international
communications.
1/3
GMT
r =  2  …… (4)
 4π 

G = 6.67 × 10−11 Nm2/kg2

h
M = 6 × 1024 kg r
M
R
T = 24 × 60 × 60 s Earth

π = 3.14
216 Physics Intermediate Part-I

So eq. (4) becomes

−11 1/3
6.67 × 10 × 6 × 1024 × (24 × 60 × 60)2
r =  
 4 × (3.14) 
r = 42300 km
r = 4.23 × 104 km
Height of Artificial Satellites:
From figure
r = R+h h
r
h = r–R
R
h = 42300 km – 6400 km
= 35900 km
h ≈ 36000 km
This is height of geostationary satellites above the surface of earth.
Indian
COMMUNICATION SATELLITES: ocean
Communication satellites are put into orbit over different points Pacific 120º
on the surface of earth. These are arranged longitudinally at angle of ocean
120º
120º with each other. So that the whole populated earth’s surface can earth
be covered by three satellites. Their position are:
• Vertically above Indian ocean.
• Vertically above Pacific ocean.
Atlantic
• Vertically above Atlantic ocean. ocean
Communication Source:
Microwaves are used for the transmission of audio, video
signals. Microwaves are used because:
9
1 GHz = 10 Hz
• They travel in narrow beam.
• They travel in straight line.
• They are least absorbed by earth’s atmosphere. The gravity can bend light. The
gravity of a star could be used to
Energy needed to amplify and retransmit signal is provided by focus light from stars.
large solar panels fitted on satellites.
There are over 200 stations which transmit and receive signals via satellite.
INTELSAT VI:
The largest satellite system managed by 126 countries known as “International Telecommunication
Satellite Organization (INTELASAT)”. It operates at microwaves frequencies of 4, 6, 11, and 14 GHz
and has a capacity of 30,000 two way telephone circuit plus three TV channels.
NEWTON’S AND EINSTEIN’S VIEW OF GRAVITATION:
Newton View of Gravitation:
According to Newton, the gravitation is the intrinsic property of matter that every particle of
matter attracts every other particle with a force that is directly proportional to the product of their masses
and is inversely proportional to the square of distance between their centre.
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 217

Effect of Newton View of Gravitation:

• Circular paths of planets and satellites. B
A
• Acceleration of object falling near earth.
Interaction between Gravity and Light:
According to Newton’s view of gravitation the light being
Sun
massless experience no effect as. θ

• Light seems to be undeflected near the earth.

• Speed of light remains same in straight line, so light is not
accelerated due to gravity.
To Earth
Einstein View of Gravity:
According to Einstein’s theory, space time is curved specially Bending of starlight by the Sun.
locally near massive bodies. Light from the star A is deflected
as it passes close to the Sun on its
Explanation: way to Earth. We see the star in
According to Einstein theory, light is considered as EM waves the apparent direction B, shifted
by the angle φ. Einstein predicted
and light rays are assumed to move along geodesics which may be that φ = 1.745 seconds of angle
straight or curved. which was found to be the same
during the solar eclipse of 1919.

Practical Evidence of Einstein Theory:

In 1919, a solar eclipse of sun was to occur, A
when the sun was in line with group of bright stars.
During an eclipse one can observe stars, which φ
were very close to sun’s edge. Einstein had
calculated that light grazing the sun should be B
Earth Sun
shifted in direction by an angle of 1.745 seconds.
Comparison of Newton’s and Einstein’s View:
In weak gravitational fields Einstein theory reduces to Newton’s gravitation theory. In strong
gravitational field the difference become important.
(i) Einstein’s theory gives us a physical picture of how gravity works.
(ii) Newton’s theory obeys inverse square law in all cases.
(iii) Newton’s theory was based on the idea of light as stream of tiny particles also suggested
that light would be deflected by gravity.
(iv) In Einstein’s theory the deflection of light was twice as predicted by Newton.
Geodesics:
Straight lines on the curved or spherical surfaces which are equivalent to straight lines on
inflated or plane surface.
Examples:

A
A
B
B
218 Physics Intermediate Part-I

SOLVED EXAMPLES
EXAMPLE 5.1
An electric fan rotating at 3 rev s–1 is switched off. It comes to rest in 18.0 s. Assuming
deceleration to be uniform, find its value. How many revolutions did it turn before coming to rest?
Data:
Initial angular velocity = ωi = 3 rev / s
Final angular velocity = ωf = 0
Time = ∆t = 18 sec
To Find:
Angular deceleration = α = ?
Number of revolutions = θ = ?

SOLUTION
∆ω
Using α =
∆t
ωf – ωi
α =
∆t
0–3
α =
18
α = –0.167 rev/s2
For angular motion
1 2
θ = ωi t + αt
2
1
θ = 3 x 18 + 2 (– 0.167) (18)2

θ = 27 rev
Result:
Angular deceleration = α = 0.167 rev/s2
Number of revolutions = θ = 27 rev

EXAMPLE 5.2
A 1000 kg car is turning round a corner at 10 ms−1 as it travels along an arc of a circle. If
the radius of circular path is 10 m, how large a force must be exerted by the pavement on the tyres
to hold the car in the circular path?
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 219
Data:
Mass of car = m = 1000 kg
Radius of circular path = r = 10 m
Speed of car = v = 10 ms−1
To Find:
Force required = Fc = ?

SOLUTION
mv2
Using Fc =
r
1000 (10)2
Fc =
10
Fc = 100 x 100
Fc = 104 N or 1.0 × 104 kg ms−2
Result:
Force required = Fc = 1.0 × 104 N
This force must be supplied by the frictional force of the pavement on the wheels.

EXAMPLE 5.3
A ball tied to the end of a string, is swung in a vertical circle of radius r under the action of
gravity as shown in figure. What will be the tension in the string when the ball is at the point A of
the path and its speed is v at this point?

SOLUTION
At point A two forces are acting on the ball.
(1) Tension in string.
(2) Weight of ball w.
As these force act along the radius at point A, therefore,
mv2 V
A
T+w = r …… (1) w
T
mv2
T = r –w

mv2 O
T =
r – mg
2
v 
T = m r –g
 
v2
If = g
r
Then T = m (g – g) = 0
T = 0 and the centripetal force just equal to weight.
220 Physics Intermediate Part-I

EXAMPLE 5.4

The mass of Earth is 6.00 x 1024 kg. The distance r from Earth to the Sun is 1.50 x 1011 m.
As seen from the direction of the North Star, the Earth revolves counter-clockwise around the
Sun. Determine the orbital angular momentum of the Earth about the Sun, assuming that it
traverses a circular orbit about the Sun once a year (3.16 x 107 s).
Data:
Mass of earth = Me = 6 x 1024 kg

Distance between Earth and Sun = r = 1.50 x 1011 m

Time period = T = 3.16 x 107 sec.

To Find:
Orbital angular momentum = Lo = ?

SOLUTION

Using Lo = Iω …… (1)

Here I = Mer2
2π
As T =
ω
2π
∴ ω = T

∴ eq. (1) becomes:

2π
Lo = Mer2 T

Putting values:
2 (3.14)
Lo = 6 x 1024 (1.50 x 1011)2 3.16 x 107

37.68 x 2.25 x 1024 x 1022

=
3.16 x 107
84.78
= 3.16 x 1046 – 7

= 26.83 x 1039
Lo = 2.67 x 1040 Js
Result:
Orbital angular momentum = Lo = 2.67 × 1040 Js
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 221

EXAMPLE 5.5
A disc without slipping rolls down a hill of height 10.0 m. If the disc starts from rest at the
top of the hill, what is its speed at the bottom?
Data:
Height of hill = h = 10 m
To Find:
Speed of disc at bottom = v = ?

SOLUTION
4 gh
Using v =
3
4 x 9.8 x 10
v = 3
392
v = 3
v = 130.66
v = 11.4 m/s
Result:
Speed of disc at bottom = v = 11.4 m/s

EXAMPLE 5.6
An Earth satellite is in circular orbit at a distance of 384,000 km from the Earth’s surface.
What is its period of one revolution in days? Take mass of the Earth M = 6.0 x 1024 kg and its
radius R = 6400 km.
Data:
Distance of satellite from surface of Earth = h = 384000 km = 3.84 × 108 m
Mass of earth = Me = 6 x 1024 kg
Radius = R = 6400 km
To Find:
Period of one revolution = T = ?

SOLUTION
As distance of satellite from centre of Earth is
r = h+R
= 384000 + 6400 = 390400 km or 3.904 × 108 m
222 Physics Intermediate Part-I

GM
∴ Using V =
r

6.67 × 10−11 × 6.0 × 1024

=
3.904 × 108

40.02 × 1013
=
3.904 × 108

= 1.025 × 106
= 1.01 × 103 m/s
= 1.01 km/s
Now using:
2πr
T =
V

2 × 3.14 × 3.904 × 108

T = = 2.4 × 106 s
1.01 × 103
1 day
As 1s =
60 × 60 × 24
T = 27.5 days

Result:
Period of one revolution = T = 27.5 days

EXAMPLE 5.7
Radio and T.V. signals bounce from a synchronous satellite. This satellite circles the Earth
once in 24 hours. So if the satellite circles eastward above the equator, it stays over the same spot
on the Earth because the Earth is rotating at the same rate.
(a) What is the orbital radius for a synchronous satellite?
(b) What is its speed?

Data:
T = 24 h
T = 24 x 60 x 60 sec
T = 86400 sec

To Find:
(a) Orbital radius = r = ?
(b) Speed of satellite = v = ?
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 223

SOLUTION
2 1/3
 GMT 
(a) Using r =  2 
 4π 
Putting values
–11 24 2 1/3
 6.67 x 10 x 6 x 10 (86400) 
r =  4 (3.14)2 
 
13 9 1/3
 40.02 x 10 x 7.46 x 10 
=  
 4 x 9.86 
22 1/3
 298.55 x 10 
=  
 39.44 
= [7.57 x 1022]1/3
= (75.7 x 1021)1/3
= (75.7)1/3 x 1021 x 1/3
= [(4.23)3]1/3 x 107
r = 4.23 x 107 m
(b) Now using
2πr
v = T
Putting values
2 (3.14) (4.23 x 107)
= 86400
26.56 x 107
=
86400
= 3.07 x 10–4 x 107
= 3.07 x 103 m/s
v = 3.1 km/s
Result:
(a) Orbital radius = r = 4.23 × 107 m
(b) Speed of satellite = v = 3.1 km/s
224 Physics Intermediate Part-I

SHORT QUESTION ANSWERS

5.1 Explain the difference between tangential velocity and the angular velocity, if one of them is
given for a wheel of known radius, how will you find the other?
Ans. • Tangential velocity is the linear velocity of an object moving in a circle. As its direction is
given by drawing tangent at each point on the circle, therefore, it is called tangential
velocity ‘vt’
∆θ
• Angular velocity is the rate of change of angular displacement i.e., ω = . Its direction is
∆t
given by right hand rule and is along the axis of rotation.
Tangential and angular velocity are related as vt = rω. By using this relation, we can find the
unknown quantity.
5.2 Explain what is meant by centripetal force and why it must be furnished to an object if the
object is to follow a circular path?
Ans. A force which is needed to keep an object moving in a circle is called centripetal force. It is
mv2
denoted by Fc and it is towards the centre of the circle. It is given as Fc = r .

Significance: It must be furnished to an object because if this force vanishes, the object will
follow a normal straight path and will not continue its circular motion. This force changes the
direction of motion of the object at every instant.
5.3 What is meant by moment of inertia? Explain its significance.
Ans. Moment of Inertia: It is the property of a rotating body to oppose any change in its rotation
about fixed axis of rotation. It is denoted by I. Moment of inertia is the product of mass and
square of its distance from axis of rotation i.e., I = mr2, SI unit is kg m2.
Significance: Moment of inertia plays the same role in angular motion, as mass plays in linear
motion.
Greater the moment of inertia, more will be its property to oppose any external accelerating
torque.
5.4 What is meant by angular momentum? Explain law of conservation of angular momentum.
Ans. Angular Momentum: It is the amount of rotational motion in a rotating body, about fixed axis
of rotation.
→ →
Mathematically: It is determined by the cross product of r and p i.e.,
→ → →
L = r × p
→ →
Where r is the position vector and p is the linear momentum.
Direction is given by right hand rule i.e., along axis of rotation and is perpendicular to the plane
→ →
containing r and p .
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 225
Law of Conservation of Angular Momentum: For an isolated system (having no external
torque), the total angular momentum remains constant, about fixed axis of rotation i.e.,
LTotal = Constant
Iω = Constant
I1ω1 = I2ω2
This law is of great importance in different games, gymnastics and studying rotational motion in
nature.
5.5 Show that orbital angular momentum, L0 = mvr?
Ans. As we know that:
→ → →
L = r × p
For orbital motion,
L0 = rp sin θ
Where, r = orbital radius
For maximum rotation, θ = 90º
L = rp
As p = mv
So, L0 = rmv
or L0 = mvr
5.6 Describe what should be the minimum velocity for a satellite to orbit close to the earth
around it.
Ans. The required minimum velocity for satellite to orbit around earth is critical velocity. Acceleration
of the satellite is 9.8 m/s2. i.e.,
ac = g
v2
As ac = r

Now, r = R for close orbiting satellite.

v2
g = r

v2 = gR
v = gR
Its numerical value is:
v = 9.8 × 6.4 × 106
v = 7.9 × 103 m/s
v = 7.9 km/s
226 Physics Intermediate Part-I

5.7 State the direction of the following vectors in simple situations; angular momentum and
angular velocity.
Ans. Direction of Angular Momentum: It is given by right hand rule. It is also along the axis of
→ → → →
rotation and as L = r × p , we can also give its direction by R.H.R of vector product i.e. L is
→ →
perpendicular to plane containing r and p .
Direction of Angular Velocity: Its direction is given by R.H.R. Hold the axis of rotation in right
hand, curling of fingers in the direction of rotation and erected thumb gives the direction of
angular velocity.
5.8 Explain why an object orbiting earth is said to be freely falling. Use your explanation to
point out why objects appear weightless under certain conditions?
Ans. Objects orbiting the earth are said to be freely falling because the only acceleration they have is
gravitational acceleration ‘g’. There is no force to hold them.
Objects appear weightless when a = g and T = 0. Such a system is said to be a gravity free
system.
5.9 When mud flies off the tyre of a moving bicycle, in what direction does it fly? Explain.
Ans. Mud will follow normal straight path to the tyre, i.e. along tangent to the tyre. As the mud had
centripetal force provided by the adhesive force between mud and the tyre. When mud dries, this
force is insufficient to provide the centripetal force. When Fc vanishes, object follows straight
path normal to the circle.
5.10 A disc and a hoop start moving down from the top of an inclined plane at the same time.
Which one will be moving faster on reaching the bottom?
Ans. As the velocity of the disc is:
4
VDisc = 3 gh = 1.33 gh

and velocity of the hoop is:

VHoop = gh = 1 gh
As velocity of disc is:
4
VDisc = 3 gh
= 1.33 gh
As velocity of hoop is:
VHoop = gh
It can be seen that Vdisc > Vhoop. Moreover, while rolling down the inclined plane, rotational K.E
1 1
of the disc is 4 mv2 and that of the hoop is 2 mv2. Therefore disc will reach earlier than the
hoop, keeping the mass and size of the objects to be constant.
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 227
5.11 Why does diver change his body positions before diving in the pool?

Ans. Diver changes his body positions before diving in the pool to conserve his angular momentum.
This helps him to take extra somersaults. When he jumps off, his moment of inertia I1 is bigger
and angular speed ω1 is less. After bending his body in tuck position, he has moment of inertia I2
which is less and angular speed ω2 increases. Thus, the product

Iω = constant

Or L = constant.
1
⇒ ω ∝
r2

5.12 A student holds two dumb-bells without stretched arms while sitting on a turn table. He is
given a push until he is rotating at certain angular velocity. The student then pulls the
dumbbell towards his chest (Fig. 5.25). What will be the effect on rate of rotation?

ωi ωf

(a) (b)

Ans. With stretched arms, while taking rotations, he has more moment of inertia and less angular
speed. But when he bends his arms, the moment of inertia decreases. As axis of rotation is fixed
to conserve his angular momentum (Iω = constant) angular speed increases. Therefore, rate of
rotation increases

5.13 Explain how many minimum number of geostationary satellites are required for global
converge of TV transmission?

Ans. Three geostationary satellites are required for global coverage. Each satellite covering 120º of
longitude of earth. Hence whole of the populated earth’s surface can be covered by three
correctly positioned satellites.
Indian Ocean
Pacific
Ocean

Atlantic
Ocean
The whole Earth can be covered
by just three geo-stationary satellites
228 Physics Intermediate Part-I

EXTRA SHORT QUESTIONS

Q. The earth move round the sun in a circular orbit is acted upon by a force. And hence work
must be done on the earth by this force. Do you agree with this statement?
Ans. The statement is wrong. Work done is zero because the centripetal force cannot do any work on
the earth.
Q. Name the scientist and the apparatus used by him to determine ‘G’.
Ans. (i) Lord Cavendish (ii) Cavendish torsion balance
Q. What is the difference between gravity and gravitation?
Ans. The term gravity refers to the force of attraction where one body is always earth. Whereas the
term gravitation refers to the force of attraction between any two bodies.
Q. At what place is the weight of a body minimum?
(a) at the surface or (b) at the center of the earth
Ans. As the value of g at the center earth is zero. Hence the weight of a body at centre of the earth will
also be zero.
Q. What does spring balance measure mass or weight?
Ans. Weight
Q. Define inertial mass of a body.
Ans. It is the mass of the material body which measures its inertia and is defined as the ratio of the
magnitude of the external force applied on it to the magnitude of acceleration produced in it.
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 229

PROBLEMS WITH SOLUTIONS

PROBLEM 5.1
A tiny laser beam is directed from the Earth to the Moon. If the beam is to have a diameter
of 2.50 m at the Moon, how small must divergence angle be for the beam? The distance of Moon
from the Earth is 3.8 × 108 m.
Data:
S = 2.50 m
r = 3.8 × 108 m
Required:
θ = ?
Calculations:
As, S = rθ
S
θ = r

2.50
θ =
3.8 × 108
θ = 6.58 × 10−9

θ = 6.6 × 10−9 rad

Result:
The divergence angle θ = 6.6 × 10−9 rad.

PROBLEM 5.2
A gramophone record turntable accelerates from rest to an angular velocity of 45.0 rev
min−1 in 1.60s. What is its average angular acceleration?
Data:
ωi = 0 rad/sec.
ωf = 45.0 rev/min.
45(2π)
= 60 rad/sec.
= 4.71 rad/sec.
∆t = 1.60 sec.
Required:
αav = ?
230 Physics Intermediate Part-I

Calculations:
∆ω
Using: αav =
∆t
ωf − ωi
=
∆t
4.71 − 0
=
1.60

αav = 2.94 rad s−2

Result:
Average angular acceleration αav = 2.94 rad s−2

PROBLEM 5.3
A body of moment of inertia I = 0.80 kg m2 about a fixed axis, rotates with a constant
angular velocity of 100 rad s−1. Calculate its angular momentum L and the torque to sustain this
motion.
Data:
I = 0.80 kg m2
ω = 100 rad s−1
Required:
(a) τ = ?
(b) L = ?
Calculations:
For L:
L = Iω …… (1)
L = (0.80)(100)
L = 80 Js

For τ:
τ = Iα …… (2)
As the body is moving with constant angular velocity, its angular acceleration is zero.
So, (2) becomes:
τ = I(0)
τ = 0

Result:
(a) Angular momentum L = 80 Js
(b) Torque τ = Zero
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 231

PROBLEM 5.4
Consider the rotating cylinder shown in figure. Suppose
that m = 5.0 kg, F = 0.60 N and r = 0.20 m. Calculate (a) the F
torque acting on the cylinder, (b) the angular acceleration of the r
1
cylinder. (Moment of inertia of cylinder = 2 mr2)

Data:
m = 5 kg F

F = 0.60 N r
r = 0.20 m
Required:
(a) τ = ?
(b) α = ?
Calculations:
1
I = 2 mr2

For τ:
τ = rf sin θ
τ = (0.20)(0.60) sin (90)°
τ = 0.12 Nm
For α:
τ = Iα
τ
α = I
1
Also, I = 2 mr2

τ
So, α =
 1 
2 mr2
 
2τ
α = mr2
2(0.12)
α = (5)(0.20)2

α = 1.2 rad s−2

Result:
(a) Torque = τ = 0.12 Nm
(b) Angular acceleration = α = 1.2 rad s−1
232 Physics Intermediate Part-I

PROBLEM 5.5

Calculate the angular momentum of a star of mass 2.0 × 1030 kg and radius 7.0 × 105 km. If
it makes one complete rotation about its axis once in 20 days, what is its kinetic energy?

Data:
M = 2 × 1030 kg

R = 7 × 105 km

= 7 × 108 m

T = 20 days

= 20 × 24 × 3600

T = 1.728 × 106 s

Required:
L = ?

K.Erot = ?

Calculations:
L = Iω …… (1)

For Star:
2
I = 5 MR2

2
I =  5 (2 × 1030)(7 × 108)2
 

I = 3.92 × 1047 kg m2
2π
Also, ω = T

2(3.14)
ω =
1.728 × 106

ω = 3.63 × 10−6 rad s−1

So, (1) becomes:

L = (3.92 × 1047)(3.63 × 10−6)

L = 1.422 × 1042 Js
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 233
For K.Erot:
1 2
K.Erot = Iω
2
1
⇒ K.Erot = 2 Lω

1
K.Erot = 2 (1.42 × 1042)(3.6 × 10−6)

K.Erot = 2.55 × 1036 J

Result:
(a) Angular momentum = L = 1.422 × 1042 Js
(b) Kinetic energy (rotational) = K.Erot = 2.55 × 1036 J

PROBLEM 5.6
A 1000 kg car travelling with a speed of 144 km h−1 round a curve of radius 100 m. Find
the necessary centripetal force.
Data:
m = 1000 kg
v = 144 kmh−1
144 × 103
= 3600
v = 40 ms−1
r = 100 m

Required:
Fc = ?

Calculations:
mv2
Using: Fc = r

(1000)(40)2
Fc =
100
Fc = 16000 N

Fc = 1.6 × 104 N

Result:
Centripetal force = Fc = 1.6 × 104 N
234 Physics Intermediate Part-I

PROBLEM 5.7
What is the least speed at which an aeroplane can execute a vertical loop of 1.0 km radius
so that there will be no tendency for the pilot to fall down at the highest point?
Data:
r = 1.0 km
= 1000 m
g = 9.8 ms−2
Required:
v = ?
Calculations:
Using: v = gr
v = 1000 × 9.8
v = 98.9 ms−1
v = 99 ms−1
Result:
Speed of aeroplane = v = 99 ms−1
PROBLEM 5.8
The Moon orbit the Earth so that the same side always faces the Earth. Determine the ratio
of its spin angular momentum (about its own axis) and its orbital angular momentum. (In this
case, treat Moon as a particle orbiting the Earth). Distance between the Earth and the Moon is
3.85 × 108 m. Radius of the Moon is 1.74 × 106 m.
Data:
r = 3.85 × 108 m
R = 1.74 × 106 m
Required:
Ls
= ?
Lo
Calculations:
For L:
As, Ls = Isωs …… (1)
2
Ls = 5 MR2ωs …… (2)
Also, Lo = Ioωo
Lo = Mr2ωo …… (3)
Dividing eq. (2) by (3):
2
 5  (MR2ωs)
Ls  
=
Lo Mr2ωo
Ls 2R2ωs
=
Lo 5r2ωo
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 235
According to given condition:
ωs = ωo = ω
2
Ls 2R ω
=
Lo 5r2ω
Ls 2R2
=
Lo 5r2
Ls 2(1.74 × 106)2
=
Lo 5(3.85 × 108)2
Ls
= 8.17 × 10−6
Lo
Ls
Lo = 8.2 × 10−6

Result:
Ratio of spin and angular momentum:
Ls
= 8.2 × 10−6
Lo

PROBLEM 5.9
The Earth rotates on its axis once a day. Suppose, by some process the Earth contracts so
that its radius is only half as large as at present. How fast will it be rotating then?
(For sphere, I = 2/5 MR2)
Data:
T1 = 24 hrs.
R1 = R (Initial radius = R1)
R
R2 = 2

Required:
T2 = ?
Calculations:
By law of conservation of angular momentum:
I1ω1 = I2ω2
2 22π 2 22π
5 MR1 T  = 5 MR2 T 
  1    2 
2 2
R1 R2
= T
T1 2
2
R2
T2 = 2 × T1
R1
236 Physics Intermediate Part-I
2
 R  
  × (24)
 2  
T2 = R 2

2
R  
 4 (24)
  
T2 = 2
R
24
T2 =
4
T2 = 6 hrs.

Result:
Earth would complete its rotation in 6 hours.

PROBLEM 5.10
What should be the orbiting speed to launch a satellite in a circular orbit 900 km above the
surface of the Earth? (Take mass of the Earth as 6.0 × 1024 kg and its radius as 6400 km).
Data:
Mass of earth = M = 6 × 1024 kg
Radius of earth = R = 6400 km
Height of circular orbit = h = 900 km
r = R+h
r = 6400 + 900
r = 7300 km
r = 7.3 × 106 m
Required:
Orbital speed = v = ?
Calculations:
GM
As, v = …… (1)
r
So, (1) becomes:
6.67 × 10−11 × 6 × 1024
v =
7.3 × 106
v = 54.8 × 106
v = 7.4 × 103 m/sec.
v = 7.4 km/sec.

Result:
Orbital speed = v = 7.4 km/sec.
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 237

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

Note: You have four choices for each objective type question as a, b, c and d. Tick the
correct choice.
1. When a body moves in such a way that its distance from the mean position remains
constant is called:
(a) Liner motion (b) Circular motion (c) Vibratory motion (d) Rotatory motion
2. Radian is define as the angle subtended at the center of the circle by an:
(a) Arc whose length equal to radius of circle
(b) Arc whose length less than radius of circle
(c) Arc whose length greater than radius of the circle
(d) None of these
3. When an object move in a circle, the angle between angular velocity ω and liner velocity v is:
(a) 90° (b) 0° (c) 45° (d) 60°
4. The S.I unit of angular displacement is:
(a) Radian (b) Degree (c) Revolution (d) All of these
5. If a body is moving counter-clockwise, then angular displacement is:
(a) Positive (b) Negative (c) Zero (d) Minimum
6. 1°° =
(a) 57.3 rad (b) 2π rad (c) 0.01745 rad (d) 0.1745 rad
7. A disc is rotating about an axis through its centre and perpendicular to its plane. A point P on the
the linear velocity of P
disc is twice as far from the axis as a point Q. At a given instant, = ?
the linear velocity of Q
1 1
(a) 4 (b) 2 (c) (d)
2 4
8. One revolution is equal to:
(a) 90° (b) 180° (c) 270° (d) 360°
9. The direction of angular velocity is:
(a) Away the axis of rotation (b) Normal the axis of rotation
(c) Along the axis of rotation (d) None of these
10. The dimensions of angular velocity are same as that of:
(a) Time period (b) Frequency (c) Wavelength (d) Speed
11. The centripetal force always directed:
(a) away from center (b) towards the center
(c) along tangent to circle (d) along the axis of rotation
238 Physics Intermediate Part-I

12. Centripetal force performs:

(a) Positive work (b) No work (c) Negative work (d) None of these
13. Moment of inertia comes in to play:
(a) in translational motion (b) in vibrational motion
(c) in rotational motion (d) when body is permanently at rest
→ →
14. Angular momentum is minimum when angle between r and p :
(a) 60° (b) 90° (c) 180° (d) 45°
15. When a body moves along a circular path which quantity remains same:
(a) Velocity (b) Momentum (c) Kinetic energy (d) All of these
16. The relation between linear velocity and angular velocity can be written as:
→ → → → → → → → → → → →
(a) ω = r × v (b) v = r × ω (c) ω = v × r (d) v = ω× r
17. If a particle move in a circle of radius r with uniform angular velocity ω then the angle
between radius r and liner velocity is:
(a) 45° (b) 90° (c) 60° (d) 180°
18. SI unit of angular acceleration is:
(a) Rad/s2 (b) Rev/s2 (c) deg/s2 (d) All of these
19. The dimension of angular acceleration are:
(a) [LT−2] (b) [T−2] (c) [LT−1] (d) [L−1T]
20. A body moving in a circle of radius r with constant speed v, its centripetal acceleration is:
v2 r v
(a) (b) v2 r (c) (d)
r v2 r
21. A body is moving in a circle of radius r is constant angular velocity ω, its centripetal forces is:
mω
(a) (b) mωr (c) mω2r (d) mωr2
r
22. The ratio of angular momentum and angular velocity is equal to:
(a) Radius of circle (b) Moment of inertia
(c) Angular acceleration (d) Torque
23. If a body is moving in a circle of radius ‘r’ if ‘vt’ is its tangential velocity then its angular
velocity is:
2
vt vt r
(a) (b) vt r (c) (d)
r r vt
24. When torque acting upon a system is zero. Which of the following will be constant?
(a) Force (b) Linear momentum
(c) Angular momentum (d) Linear impulse
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 239
25. A sphere is rolling without slipping on a horizontal plane .Then ratio of K.Erot and K.Etrans
will be:
(a) 2:3 (b) 2:5 (c) 2:7 (d) 2:9
26. Newton’s 2nd law of motion in terms of angular dynamics is given by:
(a) m2rα (b) Iα (c) mrα (d) Both (a) and (b)
27. The moment of inertia plays the same role in angular motion as the mass in:
(a) Angular motion (b) Linear motion (c) Vibrational motion (d) All of these
28. The moment of inertia of thin ring or hoop is:
2 2 1
(a) mr2 (b) m2 r (c) mr (d) mr2
5 12
29. When a wheel, 2 m in diameter makes 30 rev/min. the linear speed of point on its rim in
ms−1 is:
π
(a) 2π (b) (c) π (d) 20 π
2
30. The ratio of moment of inertia of disc and hoop is:
1 1 3 1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
2 4 4 12
31. The total kinetic energy of a rolling sphere is:
1 1 7 7
(a) mv2 (b) mv2 (c) mv2 (d) mv2
2 5 10 5
32. Flywheel is an important part of steam engine because:
(a) it increases the speed of the engine (b) it gives strength to the engine
(c) it decreases the moment of inertia (d) it helps the engine in keeping the speed uniform
→ → →
33. The direction of angular momentum L = r × p :
(a) along the direction of p (b) along the direction of r
(c) parallel to the plane containing r and p (d) perpendicular to the plane containing r and p
34. The moment of linear momentum is called:
(a) Impulse (b) Torque (c) Couple (d) Angular momentum
35. The diver spins faster than moment of inertia becomes:
(a) Smaller (b) Greater (c) Constant (d) None of these
36. The period of circular motion is given by:
2π
(a) T = rv (b) T = (c) T = vω (d) T = 2πω
ω
37. Radius of the geo-stationary orbit from the earth center is:
(a) 4.23 × 102 km (b) 4.23 × 103 km (c) 4.23 × 104 km (d) 36000 km
240 Physics Intermediate Part-I

38. In a space ship orbiting the earth, the apparent weight of the body is:
(a) Less than its real weight (b) Greater than its real weight
(c) Equal to real weight (d) Zero
39. The geo-stationary satellite are used for:
(a) World communications (b) Weather forecast
(c) Navigations (d) All of these
40. Height of the closest orbit of the satellite above the earth is:
(a) 300 km (b) 250 km (c) 500 km (d) 400 km
41. An elevator is accelerated upward with acceleration a, the apparent weight of a body of
mass m in it will be:
(a) m(a − g) (b) m(g −a) (c) m(a + g) (d) mg
42. The relation between the speed of disc and hoop can be written as:
3 4 1
(a) vdisc = 4 vhoop (b) vdisc = 3 vhoop (c) vdisc = vhoop (d) vdisc = 2 vhoop

43. A stone is whirled in a vertical circle at the end of a spring when the stone is at highest
position the tension in the string is:
(a) Maximum (b) Minimum (c) Zero (d) None of these
44. Ratio of magnitude of angular velocity of hour hand of a watch to that of earth’s rotation
about its own axis is:
(a) 3 : 1 (b) 1 : 2 (c) 2 : 1 (d) 1 : 4
45. Which statement about geo-stationary orbits is false?
(a) A geo-stationary orbit must be directly above the equator
(b) All satellites in a geo-stationary orbit must have the same mass
(c) The period of a geo-stationary orbit must be 24 hours
(d) There is only one possible radius for a geo-stationary orbit
46. The weight of a body will be maximum at:
(a) Poles (b) Equator (c) At surface of earth (d) At center of earth
47. A hollow sphere is held suspended. Sand is now poured into it in stages. The center of
gravity of the sphere with the sand:
(a) Raises continuously (b) Remain unchanged in the process
(c) First rises and then falls to original position (d) First falls and then rises to the original position
48. As we go below the surface of the earth, the value of g:
(a) Increases (b) Decreases (c) Remain same (d) Zero
49. The minimum velocity required to put a satellite in an orbit close to the earth:
(a) 7900 m/sec. (b) 7.9 km/sec. (c) 7.9 × 103 m/sec. (d) All of these
50. Einstein’s theory also says that gravity follows:
(a) Newton’s law (b) Inverse square law (c) Pascal’s law (d) None of these
51. According to  the gravitation is the intrinsic property of matter.
(a) Einstein (b) Joule (c) Newton (d) Pascal
[Chapter-5] Circular Motion 241
52. Which theory of gravitation is better?
(a) Newton (b) Compton (c) Einstein (d) Rydberg
53. When the elevator moving down with an acceleration of 9.8 ms−2 then its apparent weight
of a person:
(a) Remains same (b) Increases by 2 times
(c) Becomes zero (d) Becomes half
54. The number of satellites in the global positioning system are:
(a) 23 (b) 34 (c) 19 (d) 24
55. The orbital velocity of satellite is independent of:
(a) Mass of earth (b) Orbital radius (c) Mass of satellite (d) Both (b) and (c)
56. The minimum number of geo-stationary satellites use to send telecommunication signals to
all part of earth are:
(a) 2 (b) 3 (c) 5 (d) 4
57. The expression for the orbital radius is:
2 1/2 2 1/3 2 1/3 2 1/3
gMT  gMT  GMT  GMT 
(a) r =  2  (b) r =  2  (c) r =  2  (d) r =  2 
 2π   2π   4π   4rπ 
58. The largest satellite system has been managed by:
(a) 120 countries (b) 126 countries (c) 160 countries (d) 140 countries
59. The communication satellite INTELSAT-VI can be used as:
(a) For navigational purpose only (b) For world-wide communication only
(c) For weather monitoring (d) All of these
60. According to Einstein, light from star is deflected as it passes close to the sun on its way to
earth though an angle of:
(a) 1.745 sec. (b) 1.1745 sec. (c) 1.01745 sec. (d) 1°
61. The angular momentum changes from 2 units to 6 units in 4 s. The torque is:
3 1 1
(a) 1 unit (b) 2 unit (c) unit (d) unit
2 4
62. A particle is moving along a circular path with uniform speed. Through what angle does its
angular velocity changes when it completes half of circular path:
(a) 45° (b) 90° (c) 60° (d) 180°
63. If radius and mass of the planet are doubled , than acceleration due to gravity on its
surface will: (Hint: g = GM/R2)
(a) remains same (b) increases by 2 times
(c) becomes Zero (d) becomes Half
64. A sphere and disc have same mass and radius. Their moment of inertia are related by equation:
(a) Id = Is (b) 4Id = 5Is (c) Id = 5Is (d) 5Id = 4Is
65. If orbital radius of satellite is doubled, keeping period of rotation constant then centripetal
force becomes:
(a) remains same (b) becomes doubled (c) becomes zero (d) becomes half
242 Physics Intermediate Part-I

ANSWERS
Sr. Ans. Sr. Ans. Sr. Ans. Sr. Ans. Sr. Ans.
1. (b) 2. (a) 3. (a) 4. (a) 5. (a)
6. (c) 7. (b) 8. (d) 9. (c) 10. (b)
11. (b) 12. (b) 13. (c) 14. (c) 15. (c)
16. (d) 17. (b) 18. (a) 19. (b) 20. (a)
21. (c) 22. (b) 23. (c) 24. (c) 25. (b)
26. (b) 27. (b) 28. (a) 29. (c) 30. (a)
31. (c) 32. (d) 33. (d) 34. (d) 35. (a)
36. (b) 37. (c) 38. (d) 39. (d) 40. (d)
41. (c) 42. (b) 43. (b) 44. (c) 45. (b)
46. (a) 47. (d) 48. (b) 49. (d) 50. (b)
51. (c) 52. (c) 53. (c) 54. (d) 55. (c)
56. (b) 57. (c) 58. (b) 59. (d) 60. (a)
61. (a) 62. (d) 63. (d) 64. (b) 65. (b)