Will the radial acceleration be constant?

In summary, when a torque is applied to a body undergoing uniform circular motion, there will be a change in angular momentum which results in a change in angular velocity and radial acceleration. However, it is important to consider both changes in magnitude and rotation of the angular momentum in order to fully understand the effects of torque on radial acceleration.
  • #1
Amith2006
427
2
Sir,
When a torque is applied to a body undergoing uniform circular motion, will the radial acceleration be constant?
 
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  • #2
Torque is defined as the time derivative of angular momentum. What do you think?
 
  • #3
I think that when a torque is applied, the angular momentum increases as a result of which there a change in angular velocity and hence the radial acceleration changes. Is it right?
 
  • #4
Sounds good so far. There are two ways that the angular momentum could change though, it could change its magnitude or it could rotate. You've argued what happens in the first case, but what about the second?
 

Related to Will the radial acceleration be constant?

1. What is radial acceleration?

Radial acceleration is the acceleration that an object experiences as it moves in a circular path.

2. Why is radial acceleration important?

Radial acceleration is important because it affects the speed and direction of an object moving in a circular path. It is also a key component in understanding centripetal force.

3. How is radial acceleration calculated?

Radial acceleration can be calculated using the formula a = v2/r, where a is the acceleration, v is the speed, and r is the radius of the circular path.

4. Is the radial acceleration constant?

The radial acceleration can be constant if the speed of the object and the radius of the circular path remain constant. However, if either of these values change, the radial acceleration will also change.

5. How does radial acceleration relate to tangential acceleration?

Radial acceleration and tangential acceleration are two components of the total acceleration of an object moving in a circular path. Radial acceleration is directed towards the center of the circle, while tangential acceleration is directed tangentially to the circle. Together, they determine the overall acceleration of the object.

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