Kinetic Energy when the Force is Perpendicular to Velocity

In summary, when a particle moves in a plane with a constant force perpendicular to its velocity, according to the work energy theorem, the work done is zero and the change in kinetic energy is also zero. This means that the kinetic energy remains constant. Alternatively, since the force has no component along the direction of the velocity vector, it cannot change the magnitude of the velocity, resulting in the kinetic energy remaining constant.
  • #1
Vavi Ask
15
0

Homework Statement


Given, force of constant magnitude, which is always perpendicular to the velocity of the particle & the motion takes place in a plane. What happens to its kinetic energy? Explain.

Homework Equations


Work energy theorem

The Attempt at a Solution


According to work energy theorem, the work done turns out to be zero. This implies that the change in kinetic energy is zero i.e. the kinetic energy is constant.
 
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  • #2
Yes, this is completely correct. The change in kinetic energy is zero.
 
  • #3
Clever Penguin said:
Yes, this is completely correct. The change in kinetic energy is zero.
But there is a problem. Can we answer this question in other words where this work energy theorem is not used?
 
  • #4
Vavi Ask said:
But there is a problem. Can we answer this question in other words where this work energy theorem is not used?
Since force is perpendicular to the velocity, it has no component along the direction of the velocity vector. This means the force can't change the magnitude of the velocity. Hence, it remains constant.
 
  • #5
cnh1995 said:
Since force is perpendicular to the velocity, it has no component along the direction of the velocity vector. This means the force can't change the magnitude of the velocity. Hence, it remains constant.
Thanks a lot sir.
 

Related to Kinetic Energy when the Force is Perpendicular to Velocity

What is kinetic energy when the force is perpendicular to velocity?

Kinetic energy is the energy an object possesses due to its motion. When the force acting on an object is perpendicular to its velocity, the object will move in a circular path and its kinetic energy will be constantly changing.

How is kinetic energy calculated when the force is perpendicular to velocity?

The formula for calculating kinetic energy is KE = 1/2 * m * v^2, where m is the mass of the object and v is its velocity. When the force is perpendicular to velocity, the velocity term in the formula will be constantly changing, resulting in a constantly changing kinetic energy.

What is the relationship between force, velocity, and kinetic energy when the force is perpendicular to velocity?

When the force is perpendicular to velocity, the force and velocity are always at right angles to each other, which means that the force does no work on the object. Therefore, the kinetic energy of the object remains constant.

Can kinetic energy be converted into other forms of energy when the force is perpendicular to velocity?

Yes, kinetic energy can be converted into other forms of energy, such as potential energy or thermal energy, even when the force is perpendicular to velocity. This conversion occurs when the object's motion is affected by other forces, such as friction or gravity.

What are some real-life examples of kinetic energy when the force is perpendicular to velocity?

One example is a satellite orbiting the Earth. The satellite is constantly moving in a circular path due to the combination of its velocity and the gravitational force acting on it. Another example is a roller coaster, where the cars are constantly moving in a circular path due to the force of the track pushing them up and the force of gravity pulling them down.

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