WHAT IS ANGULAR MOMENTUM

Angular momentum is a fundamental concept in physics that describes the rotational motion of
an object. It is analogous to linear momentum, which is associated with an object's linear motion
(motion in a straight line). Angular momentum, however, deals with motion in a circular or
rotational path.

Here are the key components of angular momentum:

1. **Definition:** Angular momentum (\(L\)) is a vector quantity that represents the quantity of
rotational motion an object possesses. It depends on the object's moment of inertia (\(I\)) and its
angular velocity (\(ω\)).

2. **Formula:** Angular momentum (\(L\)) is calculated using the following formula:

\[L = I \cdot ω\]

- \(L\) is the angular momentum.

- \(I\) is the moment of inertia, which quantifies an object's resistance to changes in its
rotational motion. It depends on the object's mass distribution and the axis of rotation.
- \(ω\) is the angular velocity, which describes how quickly an object is rotating about a
particular axis.

3. **Conservation of Angular Momentum:** Like linear momentum, angular momentum is

conserved in a closed system when there is no net external torque acting on the system. This is
described by the law of conservation of angular momentum. In practical terms, this means that if
an object in rotational motion changes its shape or distribution of mass while spinning (as in the
case of a figure skater pulling in their arms), it will spin faster due to the conservation of angular
momentum.

4. **Units:** The units of angular momentum depend on the units of moment of inertia and
angular velocity. In the International System of Units (SI), angular momentum is measured in
kilogram meters squared per second (kg·m²/s).

Angular momentum plays a crucial role in various physical phenomena, including the motion of
planets and satellites, the behavior of spinning objects like gyroscope wheels, and the
conservation of rotational energy in mechanical systems. It is a fundamental concept in classical
mechanics and finds applications in fields such as astronomy, engineering, and fluid dynamics.